Career Contessa

Your time isn’t your most valuable resource—it’s your attention. In this episode, Dr. Zelana Montminy (Dr. Z), behavioral scientist and author of Finding Focus, joins Lauren to explore why learning to protect your attention is the new workplace superpower. From the myth of multitasking to the everyday “focus thieves” draining your energy, Dr. Z shares practical strategies for reclaiming your focus and thriving at work—without burning out.You’ll learn:Why multitasking sabotages productivity and how your brain really works.The most common “focus thieves” and how to spot and stop them.Dr. Z’s simple, science-backed tools to reclaim your attention starting today.Show NotesWeekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQW Guest ResourcesDr. Zelana website: https://drzelana.com/ Finding Focus book: https://drzelana.com/findingfocus Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.zelana Career Contessa ResourcesBook 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/ Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/ Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/ SponsorsMerit Beauty is offering our listeners their Signature Makeup Bag with your first order at merit beauty.com.Join thousands of small business owners simplifying their finances—open your FREE Found account now at found.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, Lauren and career coach Marnie Lemonik tackle one of the most common struggles for all of us —setting boundaries at work. From overcommitting to avoiding uncomfortable conversations, they break down why boundaries matter and how to enforce them in a way that feels fair, balanced, and realistic. You’ll Learn:How to replace “maybe” with clear, confident communicationHow to use tools and systems to make boundaries easier to stick toHow to anticipate (and handle) pushback when enforcing boundariesShow NotesWeekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQW Follow Marnie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marnielemonik/ Follow Lauren on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenmcgoodwin/ Resources Job Search Dashboard: https://careercontessa.teachable.com/p/the-job-search-dashboard-notion-template?affcode=70732_cx6_j5wn CareerFitter Online Assessment: https://www.careerfitter.com/free_test/careerbuilder?afid=2218 Marnie’s Free Resourceshttps://www.marnielemonik.com/resources Marnie’s Interview Prep eBook: https://www.marnielemonik.com/resources/p/ebook-how-to-shine-in-your-next-job-interview 10% Discount Code: CCPOD Career Contessa ResourcesBook 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/ Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/ Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/ Career Contessa ResourcesBook 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/ Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/ Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/ Sponsors:Go to livemomentous.com, and use promo code CONTESSA for up to 35% off your first subscription order. Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/careercontessa.Whatever challenges you’re facing, Grow Therapy is here to help. Visit GrowTherapy.com/CONTESSA today to get startedSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We’ve been told our whole lives that competition makes us better, sharper, and more successful. But what if that belief is holding us back? In this episode of The Career Contessa Podcast, I’m joined by Ruchika Malhotra—founder of Candour and author of UNCOMPETE—to challenge the myth that competition is the key to growth. Instead, she shows us why uncompeting is the real path to abundance, joy, and lasting success.You’ll learn:Why the idea that “competition makes us better” is more harmful than helpfulHow to shift from a scarcity mindset to one of abundancePractical strategies to embrace collaboration without losing ambitionShow NotesWeekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQWGuest Resources:Website: https://www.ruchika.co/Book: https://www.ruchika.co/uncompete-bookLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruchikatm/ Career Contessa ResourcesBook 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/Sponsor:Go to calm.com/contessa for 40% off unlimited access to Calm’s entire library.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ever worked for a bad boss? You’re not alone—and you’re not powerless. In this episode, workplace equity expert and author Mita Mallick unpacks the realities of toxic leadership and how to rise above it. From micromanagers to spotlight-stealers, Mita shares hard-won lessons and practical strategies to protect your confidence and career.You’ll learn:The 13 types of bad bosses—and which ones do the most damage.How to navigate toxic power dynamics when you’re early in your career.A simple shift every leader can make to build trust and lead inclusively.Show NotesWeekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQW Guest Resources:Mita Mallick website:https://www.mitamallick.com/ Book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1394316488 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mita-mallick-2b165822/Career Contessa Resources:Book 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/ Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/ Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/ Sponsors:Get up to 35% off plus 2 free gifts when you use code CONTESSA at checkout at shopbeam.com/CONTESSA.Whatever challenges you’re facing, Grow Therapy is here to help. Visit GrowTherapy.com/CONTESSA today to get started. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Why do some people seem to instantly earn trust and command a room—without being pushy or fake? In this episode, executive communication coach Dr. Kate Mason shares research-backed strategies from her book Powerfully Likeable to help you show up with warmth, authenticity, and confidence at work.You’ll learn:The difference between being likeable and being a people-pleaserSubtle body language shifts that instantly build trustHow to handle tricky conversations without losing credibilityIf you’ve ever struggled to be taken seriously and stay true to yourself, this episode is for you.Show Notes:Weekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQW Guest Resources:Kate Mason Website: https://www.katemason.co/ Powerfuly Likeable book: https://www.amazon.com/Powerfully-Likeable-Womans-Effective-Communication-ebook/dp/B0DQNQMHXN Kate Mason LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katemasonphd/ Substack: https://katemason.substack.com/Career Contessa Resources:Book 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/ Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/ Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/ Sponsors:Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month Shopify trial period at shopify.com/careercontessa. Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to zocdoc.com/contessa to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Executive coach and author Martin Dubin joins us to unpack the 6 most common leadership blindspots—and why the most successful people are often the most blind to them.You’ll learn:Why your biggest strength might secretly be a liabilityHow emotions can quietly hijack your leadershipThe first step to uncovering what’s holding you backShow NotesWeekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQW Guest Resources:Website: https://www.martindubin.com/ Blindspot Test: https://www.blindspotting.com/ Book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DRZFK8J6?tag=bk00010a-20&th=1&psc=1&geniuslink=true Career Contessa ResourcesBook 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/ Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/ Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/ Sponsor:Go to Leesa.com for 25% off mattresses PLUS get an extra $50 off with promo code CONTESSA, exclusive for my listeners.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, Lauren and career coach Marnie Lemonik dive into the art of telling your career story—a skill that matters whether you’re interviewing, networking, or simply introducing yourself in a work environment. Listen to hear about  the three key parts every career story should include and share practical frameworks (plus real examples) to help you create a concise, clear, and authentic narrative.You’ll Learn:How to craft a 1–2 sentence “career thesis statement” that highlights your path and through-lineHow to filter your past roles so your story feels relevant (without rambling)How to work through the awkward period of your story feeling “new”Show NotesWeekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQW Follow Marnie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marnielemonik/ Follow Lauren on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenmcgoodwin/ Resources Career Summary / Thesis Statement Template: I’ve spent the majority of my career in [ABC FIELDS] within [XYZ roles]. The through line of my experience has really been [a passion to help XYZ group, a desire to contribute to an XYZ mission, an interest in the XYZ element of your roles]. Marnie’s “Tell Me About Yourself” Example: https://www.instagram.com/p/C70Ht65M4uR/ Job Search Dashboard: https://careercontessa.teachable.com/p/the-job-search-dashboard-notion-template?affcode=70732_cx6_j5wn CareerFitter Online Assessment: https://www.careerfitter.com/free_test/careerbuilder?afid=2218 Marnie’s Free Resourceshttps://www.marnielemonik.com/resources Marnie’s Interview Prep eBook: https://www.marnielemonik.com/resources/p/ebook-how-to-shine-in-your-next-job-interview 10% Discount Code: CCPOD Career Contessa ResourcesBook 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/ Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/ Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/ Sponsors:Grow Therapy is here to help. Visit GrowTherapy.com/CONTESSA to learn more.Go to shopify.com/careercontessa to upgrade your selling today.Open a Found account for FREE at found.com/contessa.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ever feel stuck at work but can’t quite put your finger on why? In this episode, executive coach and Leadership Unblocked author Muriel Wilkins explains the invisible blockers that stand between you and your full potential. She shares why a “perception gap” can hold you back even more than a skills gap — and how you can start coaching yourself to break through those hidden barriers.You’ll learn:Why your biggest blocker might be a perception gap, not a skill gapHow to self-coach when self-doubt creeps inThe key questions that help you lead from the inside outShow NotesWeekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQWGuest Resources:Website and book: https://www.murielwilkins.com/Podcast: https://www.murielwilkins.com/podcast-coaching-real-leadersLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/murielwilkins/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coachmurielwilkins/#CC podcast on executive presence: https://podcasts.apple.com/gh/podcast/executive-presence-what-it-is-and-how-to-get-it-at-work/id1434354911?i=1000577768564 Career Contessa ResourcesBook 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/SponsorGo to Superpower.com to learn more and lock in the special $199 price while it lasts. Live up to your 100-Year potential. #superpowerpodSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Struggle with saying “no” at work? You’re not alone. In this episode, career coach and talent acquisition manager Adeline Callanan joins us to break down what assertive communication really looks like—and how to build the skill without sounding aggressive.You’ll learn: ✅ How to speak up without being seen as “difficult” ✅ Simple language shifts that boost your confidence ✅ Nonverbal cues that support (or sabotage) your messageShow NotesWeekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQW Guest Resources:Work with Adeline: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/profile/Adeline-(Gheorghita)Callanan/21903/ 10% off a session with Adeline with code “Podcast” till 9/25/25Career Contessa ResourcesBook 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/ Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/ Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/ SponsorsStop putting off those doctors appointments and go to zocdoc.com/contessa to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today.Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/careercontessa. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Lauren and career coach Marnie Lemonik close out their 3-part summer series on Career Clarity with an honest conversation about “waiting seasons” in your career—the in-between times when you’re not quite where you want to be yet. If you’ve ever felt stuck or restless while waiting for the next step to unfold, this episode will help you see that season with fresh perspective and practical tools.Tune in to learn:How to identify the “why” behind your waiting season so it feels intentional, not stuckWhy defining your own “success” metric keeps you consistent and motivatedA simple way to create rewards that reinforce progress without derailing your goalsShow NotesWeekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQW Follow Marnie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marnielemonik/ Follow Lauren on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenmcgoodwin/ Resources Part 1 in Career Clarity Series: https://podcasts.apple.com/at/podcast/3-in-30-how-to-figure-out-your-next-career-move/id1434354911?i=1000713210738 Part 2 in Career Clarity Series: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/3-in-30-how-to-turn-career-clarity-into-action/id1434354911?i=1000718423565 Figure Out Your Next Career Move: https://www.careercontessa.com/resources/figure-out-your-next-career-move/ Marnie’s Career Clarity IG Series: https://www.instagram.com/p/DHFOjMnu0Lc/ Job Search Dashboard: https://careercontessa.teachable.com/p/the-job-search-dashboard-notion-template?affcode=70732_cx6_j5wn CareerFitter Online Assessment: https://www.careerfitter.com/free_test/careerbuilder?afid=2218 Marnie’s Free Resourceshttps://www.marnielemonik.com/resources Marnie’s Interview Prep eBook: https://www.marnielemonik.com/resources/p/ebook-how-to-shine-in-your-next-job-interview 10% Discount Code: CCPOD Career Contessa ResourcesBook 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/ Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/ Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/ SponsorsAll month Beam is offering up to 50% off Beam Kids for Back to school when you go to Shopbeam.com/CONTESSA and use code CONTESSA at checkout.If you’re ready to upgrade your rest go to Leesa.com for 30% off mattresses PLUS get an extra $50 off with promo code CONTESSA, exclusive for my listeners.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Have you ever made a big work decision—only to second-guess it immediately? Or felt like you’re constantly pushing against a career path that’s supposed to feel “right”? According to Human Design expert Erin Claire Jones, the issue might not be your ambition—it might be your alignment. In this episode, Erin joins us to talk about her new book, How Do You Choose?, and how Human Design can offer a practical framework for making better career and life decisions. You’ll learn:The 3 key Human Design elements that influence how you make decisions at workWhy “success” might look—and feel—very different depending on your typeHow understanding your own design (and your coworkers’) can reduce burnout and improve collaborationShow NotesWeekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQW Guest Resources:First Career Contessa Podcast episode:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-to-use-human-design-in-your-career/id1434354911?i=1000451886054 Erin Claire Jones Website: https://erinclairejones.com/Human Design Blueprint: https://humandesignblueprint.com/ How Do You Choose Book: https://erinclairejones.com/bookGuides and use “career” for a discount: https://humandesignblueprint.com/guide/?_rvid=0197a7ae-38c4-75ab-9a16-135105f59d02 Career Contessa ResourcesBook 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/ Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/ Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/ SponsorsGo to Superpower.com and use code CONTESSA to get $50 Off your annual Superpower subscription. Live up to your 100-Year potential. #superpowerpodSign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/careercontessa.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Feel like you’re doing everything right but still not getting the recognition you deserve? In this episode, LinkedIn Top Voice Lorraine K. Lee shares actionable ways to raise your visibility at work—without burning out, bragging, or pretending to be someone you’re not.You’ll learn:Why visibility is essential for real career growth—and how to stand out subtly but powerfullySmart ways to build your executive presence on LinkedIn, in meetings, and beyondHow to “lead from where you are” and make sure your contributions get noticedShow NotesWeekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQW Guest Resources:Website: https://lorraineklee.com/Book: https://lorraineklee.com/unforgettable-presence/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorraineklee/ Improve Communication Skills at Work episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/improve-your-communication-skills-at-work-presentations/id1434354911?i=1000651156838 Career Contessa ResourcesBook 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/ Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/ Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/ SponsorOpen a Found account for FREE at found.com/contessa. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Author Brad Englert shares how to build lasting influence through trust, visibility, and real relationships. Learn how to strengthen your internal and external networks and why influence is a must-have leadership skill—not just a nice-to-have. You’ll Learn:Why influence is a hard skill every modern leader needsHow to strengthen relationships inside and outside your organizationPractical habits that help you build trust and credibility for the long haulShow NotesWeekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQW The Successful Networker: https://careercontessa.teachable.com/p/the-successful-networkerGuest ResourcesSpheres of Influence: https://bradenglert.com/spheres-of-influence/ Career Contessa ResourcesBook 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/ Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/ Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/ SponsorsGo to Superpower.com and use code CONTESSA to get $50 Off your annual Superpower subscription. Live up to your 100-Year potential. #superpowerpodStop putting off those doctors appointments and go to zocdoc.com/contessa to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today. Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/careercontessa.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

So you finally have a sense of your next career move—now what? In this 3 in 30 episode, Lauren and career coach Marnie Lemonik share three practical steps to help you turn that newfound clarity into real progress. If you’re feeling stuck between knowing what you want and actually going for it, this episode is your roadmap to get moving.Tune in to learn: How to move forward without obsessing over the “perfect” pathWhy a personal non-negotiables list helps you find the right companiesA simple way to set weekly goals that keep you consistent and motivatedShow NotesWeekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQW Follow Marnie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marnielemonik/ Follow Lauren on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenmcgoodwin/ Resources Part 1 in Career Clarity Series: https://podcasts.apple.com/at/podcast/3-in-30-how-to-figure-out-your-next-career-move/id1434354911?i=1000713210738 Figure Out Your Next Career Move: https://www.careercontessa.com/resources/figure-out-your-next-career-move/ Marnie’s Career Clarity IG Series: https://www.instagram.com/p/DHFOjMnu0Lc/ Job Search Dashboard: https://careercontessa.teachable.com/p/the-job-search-dashboard-notion-template?affcode=70732_cx6_j5wn CareerFitter Online Assessment: https://www.careerfitter.com/free_test/careerbuilder?afid=2218 Marnie’s Free Resourceshttps://www.marnielemonik.com/resources Marnie’s Interview Prep eBook: https://www.marnielemonik.com/resources/p/ebook-how-to-shine-in-your-next-job-interview 10% Discount Code: CCPOD Career Contessa ResourcesBook 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/ Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/ Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/ Sponsors:Head to mauinuivenison.com/CONTESSA to secure your access to a limited collection of cuts and products.Go to Leesa.com for 25% off mattresses PLUS get an extra $50 off with promo code CONTESSA, exclusive for my listeners. Open a Found account for FREE at found.com/CONTESSA.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What’s your reputation when you’re not in the room? Career and leadership expert Kimberly Brown joins us to share how to take control of your professional narrative—before someone else does.You’ll learn:How to assess and reshape the story others tell about youPractical ways to boost your visibility without “self-promoting”The difference between building a career and building a lasting legacyShow NotesWeekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQW Guest Resources:https://kimberlybonline.com/https://brownleadership.com/ Next Move, Best Move Book: https://kimberlybonline.com/book Career Contessa Resources:Book 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/ Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/ Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/ Sponsors:Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/careercontessa.Get 15% off OneSkin with the code contessa at https://www.oneskin.co.Wildgrain is offering our listeners $30 off the first box - PLUS free Croissants in every box - when you go to Wildgrain.com/CONTESSA to start your subscription.Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to zocdoc.com/contessa to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.