Career Leadership Podcast

In this episode of 'Career Leadership,' Donna Serdula and Isaiah delve into the intricate dynamics of career growth and leadership in today's evolving professional landscape. Donna kicks off the conversation with a personal check-in, reflecting on the challenges many of us face during the holiday season, particularly when balancing family and professional responsibilities. Isaiah shares relatable insights about the cyclical nature of dealing with children’s sicknesses during this time, setting a warm and engaging tone for the episode. As the dialogue progresses, they address the perennial issue of work ethic among younger generations entering the workforce. The conversation brings out diverse perspectives on how modern educational systems and societal influences shape youth expectations and readiness for professional environments. They stress the irreplaceable value of hands-on experience, internships, and the sometimes controversial stance on unpaid internships, highlighting how these opportunities can cultivate a robust work ethic and practical skills. Donna and Isaiah explore the tension between the idealism often held by fresh graduates and the pragmatic needs of businesses, especially in an era where AI and automation are transforming job roles. They discuss the importance of adaptability, resilience, and the willingness to tackle menial tasks with a positive attitude. The advice centers on how young professionals can stand out by demonstrating gratitude, eagerness to learn, and a readiness to contribute from day one. The episode also covers leadership strategies that seasoned professionals can employ to mentor and guide new entrants effectively. They share practical tips on building a personal brand, the significance of expressing genuine interest in potential employers, and strategic approaches to networking on platforms like LinkedIn. Towards the end of the conversation, the discussion broadens to the impact of societal values on professional behavior and leadership. Donna and Isaiah reflect on the historical shifts in work perceptions and the constant, timeless value of hard work and dedication. They encourage listeners to seek growth opportunities actively, embrace challenges head-on, and maintain a balance between striving for stability and welcoming the adventure of uncertainty in their careers. For those looking to bolster their leadership skills and career trajectory, this episode is a treasure trove of insights. Donna's conversational style, paired with Isaiah’s candid perspectives, provides a comprehensive guide to navigating and excelling in the professional world. Whether you're a new graduate stepping into your first role or a seasoned leader aiming to inspire your team, the nuggets of wisdom shared in this episode are sure to resonate and inspire actionable change.

In this insightful episode of 'Career Leadership', hosts Donna Serdula and Isaiah engage in a thought-provoking conversation about the challenges and opportunities that come with the end of the year. They start off with reflections on how the close of the year impacts both personal and business budgets, and the importance of strategic thinking as the old year wraps up and the new one begins. Isaiah shares his perspective on the significance of thought energy and focus, and how directing one's energy towards personal and professional growth can make a substantial difference. Donna reflects on past experiences in sales and the importance of planning and budgeting towards year-end, providing listeners with practical advice on making the most out of their remaining budget to set up for a strong start in the new year. A central theme of the discussion revolves around the wisdom found in Ayn Rand's 'The Fountainhead', particularly in relation to the power of control and focus. Isaiah highlights the value of logic and focus in achieving one's goals, while also acknowledging the distractions that can derail us. The conversation delves into the idea of evading reality and how crucial it is to remain grounded and realistic to achieve success. Listeners will also appreciate Donna's insights on the role of productivity in morality. By drawing connections between well-made products and moral goodness, she offers a fresh perspective on personal and professional responsibility. The discussion further explores how staying informed about industry trends, like the impact of AI, is essential for maintaining competitiveness. Towards the end of the episode, both hosts emphasize the importance of balancing consumption and creation on social media, highlighting the moral obligation to produce valuable content that can positively influence others. This episode is a must-listen for professionals seeking to enhance their leadership skills, manage their career strategies effectively, and navigate the complexities of the modern business world with a clear, focused mind. Join Donna and Isaiah as they share powerful lessons on focus, logic, and the essence of moral productivity in a rapidly changing world.

In this enlightening episode of 'Mastering Career Growth,' hosts Donna Serdula and Isaiah delve deep into the intricacies of managing career and personal growth. The conversation kicks off with a warm introduction, setting the stage for a profound discussion on leadership, prioritization, and personal branding. Episode Highlights: 1. Handling Life’s Fires and Priorities Isaiah and Donna discuss the overwhelming nature of life and work, drawing insights from Stephen Covey’s quadrant of urgent vs. important tasks. They explore strategies for navigating through the constant 'fires' and maintaining focus on larger goals. 2. Overcoming Overwhelm and Maintaining Focus Donna shares valuable tips on how to stay calm and focused amidst chaos. Her advice includes practical steps such as exercise, hydration, and acknowledging that it's normal to struggle with balance when life seems like a whirlwind. 3. The Importance of Offloading Tasks In a segment inspired by Michael Michalowicz’s 'Pumpkin Plan,' the hosts emphasize the necessity of offloading non-essential tasks to foster growth and efficiency. Donna highlights the significance of periodically reassessing one’s workload to eliminate tasks that aren't contributing to overall goals. 4. Brain Dumping for Clarity Donna explains a recent 'brain dump' exercise she did with her husband to organize overwhelming tasks into a manageable list, offering listeners a technique to achieve mental clarity and reduced stress. 5. Productivity Techniques and Mental Clarity Isaiah introduces the concept of 'Getting Things Done' (GTD) by David Allen. The discussion revolves around offloading mental tasks onto paper to free up mental space and enhance productivity. 6. Balancing Expansion and Contraction Isaiah and Donna talk about the dynamic nature of career growth, likening it to business cycles of expansion and consolidation. They underline the importance of knowing when to push forward and when to scale back to maintain balance. 7. The Power of Choice and Self-Care Here, Isaiah reminds listeners of the importance of personal choice and self-care in professional life. He urges professionals to recognize their autonomy in deciding what they pursue and emphasizes the need to avoid burnout by making conscious choices. 8. Harnessing Defiance for Personal Growth In a motivating segment, the hosts discuss how defiance and selfish motivation can fuel significant personal and professional achievements. 9. Navigating Corporate Responsibilities Donna and Isaiah offer strategies for professionals in corporate settings to manage increasing responsibilities and maintain visibility, emphasizing the art of saying no and effectively negotiating priorities with managers. 10. Effective Project Management Strategies Drawing from personal experiences and industry best practices, the hosts share essential project management strategies to ensure workload balance and sustained productivity. Final Thoughts: The episode is packed with actionable insights and strategies tailored for professionals aiming to enhance their leadership skills and career trajectory. Whether you're an entrepreneur, corporate professional, or academic, Donna and Isaiah's practical advice will help you navigate the complexities of modern professional life.

In this engaging episode of our podcast, join host Isaiah Hankel and career strategist Donna Serdula as they delve into the intricacies of the modern media landscape and its impact on leadership and professional growth. This episode offers a treasure trove of insights for professionals eager to elevate their career paths and leadership abilities. The conversation kicks off with Donna sharing her recent travels for speaking engagements across the United States, setting the stage for a broader discussion on the evolving nature of media consumption. Isaiah and Donna reflect on the enduring appeal of print media versus the burgeoning influence of digital platforms like podcasts. They explore the generational shifts in media preferences, using Donna's stepdaughters as a barometer for Gen Z's media habits. A significant portion of the discussion is dedicated to the transformative power of podcasting in today's political and professional arenas. Donna and Isaiah examine how long-form content, exemplified by in-depth podcasts, enables greater authenticity and transparency, allowing listeners to truly understand the personas behind the microphones. They highlight the unique value of in-person interactions, emphasizing that face-to-face meetings still hold unparalleled significance in building trust and forging meaningful connections. The dialogue takes a deeper turn as Isaiah and Donna discuss the importance of consistency and effort in personal and professional endeavors. Donna underscores the value of putting in the hard yards, noting that true progress often comes from sustained effort and the willingness to step out of one's comfort zone. Isaiah reinforces this by drawing parallels between career advancement and sales, encouraging listeners to become active participants in their career journeys rather than passive observers. As the episode concludes, Isaiah and Donna exchange thoughts on the future of media and professional networking. They predict a resurgence in localized, in-person interactions, driven by an increasing need for authenticity and trust in a digitally saturated world. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to enhance their leadership skills and career strategies. Tune in to gain actionable advice and valuable perspectives from two seasoned professionals who have successfully navigated the shifting tides of the modern media landscape.

In this episode of 'Career Leadership,' hosts Donna Serdula and Isaiah Hankel delve into an engaging and thought-provoking discussion centered around contemporary career challenges, leadership strategies, and the impact of digital distractions on professional growth. Aimed at professionals seeking to refine their career trajectory and leadership prowess, this episode brings to light various pivotal topics. The discussion kicks off with an exploration of trending topics on social media and their relevance to personal and professional development. You'll hear about the 'Very Demure, Very Mindful' trend from TikTok, its humorous undertones, and how such viral content can penetrate even the most carefully curated digital spaces. This segues into a broader conversation on the 'newsification' of everything and the transformative role of entertainment and AI in career spaces. The episode takes an introspective turn as Donna and Isaiah reflect on the somber anniversary of 9/11, drawing parallels between historical events and their impact on today's work culture. This reflection serves as a backdrop for discussing vigilance, mindfulness, and the need for balanced decision-making in high-stakes environments. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the intricacies of job market realities, especially how to navigate and identify 'ghost jobs,' perform due diligence during job searches, and the importance of blending boldness with prudence. Emphasis is placed on actionable strategies for balancing meticulous research with decisive action to avoid perpetual stagnation or impulsive pitfalls. The conversation also highlights the significance of maintaining focus in an era of constant digital distractions. Isaiah and Donna share personal anecdotes and practical tips on how to manage digital consumption, including strategies like phone fasting and creating dedicated device-free zones to enhance productivity and mental clarity. Peppered throughout the episode are references to influential books and authors that have shaped the hosts' perspectives, providing listeners with a curated reading list to enhance their understanding of the discussed concepts. Notable mentions include books by Neil Strauss, Robert Green, and Jeffrey Gittimer, each offering profound lessons on power dynamics, counterbalance strategies, and sales excellence. As the episode draws to a close, the discussion returns to the critical theme of self-mastery and responsiveness, particularly in the context of job search strategies. Isaiah underscores the need for selective notification management to stay ahead in competitive job markets, while Donna reiterates the power of focused effort over scattered attention. Whether you're a seasoned professional or at the start of your career journey, this episode is packed with actionable advice, reflective insights, and motivational takeaways that will help you conquer your career challenges with a balanced and informed approach. Tune in for a journey through the nuanced landscape of career leadership with Donna Serdula and Isaiah Hankel.

In this episode of Career Leadership, Donna Serdula and Isaiah Hankel discuss the intersection of age and achievement, emphasizing that life between the ages of 40 and 60 can be a period of peak success and influence. Donna celebrates her recent 50th birthday, sparking a conversation about societal views on aging and the importance of embracing milestones. Together, they explore the significance of showing up, taking calculated risks, and setting high standards for yourself at any age. They share powerful lessons learned from life experiences, such as naming your emotions, embracing failure as a part of growth, and ensuring that what you accept is aligned with what you truly deserve. This episode offers inspiration to continue pushing toward your dreams, regardless of age, and to use life's milestones as opportunities for growth and transformation. 00:00 Introduction and Greetings 00:13 The Significance of September 01:01 Celebrating Milestones: Turning 50 02:16 Age and Success: Prime Time in Life 07:29 The Importance of Taking Risks 09:32 The Power of Showing Up 10:34 Naming and Controlling Your Feelings 12:18 Setting and Maintaining High Standards 15:14 Final Reflections and Farewell

In this inspiring episode of Career Leadership, Donna Serdula and Isaiah Hankel reflect on the life and teachings of John Rulon, author of Giftology, who revolutionized the concept of gifting with his focus on authenticity and thoughtfulness. They discuss the art of giving quality gifts, building meaningful connections, and why authentic effort is more important than quantity in networking. Learn how to enhance your professional relationships by focusing on personalized gestures, LinkedIn recommendations, and even the impact of sending a handwritten note. Donna and Isaiah also share tips on creating your “Dream 100” list to strategically advance your career. 00:00 Introduction and Greetings 00:12 Remembering John Rulan 01:38 The Art of Gifting 05:32 Effort and Authenticity in Networking 10:37 The Impact of Personalized Effort 18:58 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In the latest episode of Career Leadership, hosts Donna Serdula and Isaiah Hankel explore what it takes to successfully navigate your career towards leadership roles, particularly in the C-Suite. They examine the importance of having a proactive career strategy, understanding the trends in your industry, and not just relying on opportunities to fall into your lap. The conversation covers the differences between professionals who find themselves in reactionary career positions and those who strategically plan their way to the top. Donna and Isaiah also touch on the challenges of executive roles, from the volatility of the C-Suite to the importance of measuring your progress and having a clear vision. Whether you're aiming for a high-level leadership position or just want to ensure your career is on the right track, this episode is packed with actionable advice and deep insights to help you lead your career with intention and success.

Are you looking to stand out at work and get ahead in your career? In this episode of Career Leadership, Donna Serdula and Isaiah Hankel share actionable strategies that can make you more memorable to your managers and colleagues. From becoming a concept within your organization to mastering the art of asking for advice, they provide a roadmap for advancing in your career. They also discuss the importance of personal branding, solving other people's problems, and adopting a mindset focused on generating value for your company. Whether you're aiming for a promotion or simply want to solidify your position, these tips will help you navigate the competitive workplace with confidence. Tune in to learn how to elevate your career to the next level! 00:00 Introduction and Greetings 00:13 The Concept of Green Rooms 01:28 How to Stand Out at Work 02:23 Becoming a Memorable Employee 04:12 The Power of Acts of Service 06:21 Asking for Advice 08:15 Connecting with Clients 10:54 Final Tips for Career Advancement 11:57 Conclusion and Farewell

Celebrate the 4th of July with a special episode of "Career Leadership" featuring Donna Serdula and Isaiah Hankel! In this lively discussion, Donna and Isaiah dive into the psychology of appearance, the importance of effort in career success, and the delicate balance of dressing for the job you want. Donna shares her experiences of being overdressed at events, while Isaiah recounts the perils of video interviews with shorts. They also explore how to overcome the stigma of "trying too hard" and the real value of putting in effort. Whether you're looking to enhance your professional image or gain insights on career growth, this episode is filled with practical tips and engaging stories to help you shine brighter in your career. Timestamps: 0:00 - Introduction and 4th of July Greetings 1:00 - Dressing Up for Success 3:00 - The Psychology of Appearance 5:00 - Balancing Professional Attire 7:00 - Influence of Dressing Well 10:00 - Effort and Overcompensation 14:00 - The Grind to Success 20:00 - 4th of July Plans and Conclusion

In this thought-provoking episode of "Career Leadership," hosts Donna Serdula and Isaiah Hankel explore the intricacies of breaking barriers and embracing challenges to foster personal and professional growth. Donna and Isaiah start with a personal story of loss and the impact it has on evaluating life choices. They discuss the importance of setting ambitious goals without being deterred by the cost and share practical strategies for overcoming limiting beliefs. Isaiah opens up about his journey from a poor mindset to embracing investments in his career, while Donna emphasizes the need for self-investment and continuous improvement. They touch on the significance of radical forgiveness, changing one's identity, and the power of journaling as a tool for self-discovery and growth. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to overcome their fears, break free from limiting beliefs, and achieve their highest potential. Donna and Isaiah's candid conversation offers valuable insights and actionable advice to help you navigate your career journey with confidence and resilience.

In this episode of Career Leadership, hosts Donna Serdula and Isaiah Hankel dive into the critical topic of how job seekers can differentiate themselves in an increasingly AI-driven job market. Drawing from their extensive experience in career coaching and personal branding, they provide valuable insights and practical advice for maintaining a competitive edge. Donna shares her experiences with the shifting dynamics of the job market and emphasizes the importance of human connections. Isaiah highlights the need for effort and authenticity in networking and job applications, stressing that these elements can make all the difference in standing out to potential employers. Key points discussed in this episode include: - The limitations of relying solely on AI and automated tools in the job search. - The power of personal connections and human interaction in securing job opportunities. - Strategies for staying positive and resilient in a challenging job market. - The significance of tailored, thoughtful outreach and the diminishing returns of spamming applications. - How to leverage introductions and personalized messages to make a lasting impression. If you're navigating the complexities of today's job market and seeking ways to stand out, this episode is a must-listen. Join Donna and Isaiah for an enlightening conversation that will inspire you to embrace the human touch in your career journey. Tune in now to gain actionable insights and transform your approach to job searching.

In this episode of Career Leadership, hosts Donna Serdula and Isaiah Hankel delve into the significance of personal advocacy in shaping your career. Donna shares a compelling story about how she took the lead in opposing a local development project near her home, despite her busy schedule and initial reluctance. Her experience serves as a microcosm for understanding the dynamics of job search, business success, and personal branding. Donna and Isaiah discuss the importance of stepping forward when no one else will, the value of in-person interactions, and how facing challenges head-on can lead to unexpected opportunities. Listeners will gain valuable insights on: - The importance of taking initiative and not waiting for others to act. - The power of in-person interactions in building support and achieving goals. - Handling criticism and staying focused on your mission. - How personal advocacy can open doors to new opportunities and career growth. - The role of resilience and continuous effort in achieving long-term success. Join us for an inspiring conversation that highlights the transformative power of personal advocacy and offers practical advice for taking control of your career and making a meaningful impact. If you're ready to transform your career through personal advocacy, this episode is for you.

In this episode of Career Leadership, hosts Donna Serdula and Isaiah Hankel explore the extreme lengths some job seekers might go to secure employment. Donna shares a deeply disturbing story about a job seeker who created a fake LinkedIn account and job posting to gather information about competitors. The discussion sheds light on the ethical implications of such unorthodox strategies and emphasizes the importance of maintaining integrity in the job search process. Donna and Isaiah also discuss the challenges of the current job market, the rise of desperation among job seekers, and the critical need for resilience and ethical conduct. Listeners will gain valuable insights on: - The dangers and consequences of deceitful job search tactics. - The importance of empathy and ethical behavior in career advancement. - Strategies for staying empowered and motivated during a challenging job search. - How to differentiate yourself in a competitive job market with integrity. Join us for an engaging conversation that not only highlights the pitfalls of unethical job search practices but also offers practical advice for achieving career success through positive and empowering methods. If you're ready to take control of your career with integrity and purpose, this episode is for you.

Navigating the world of business ownership while managing your career can be a daunting task. In this episode of Career Leadership, hosts Donna Serdula and Isaiah Hankel dive into the realities of being a business owner and the evolving landscape of career growth. Business ownership is often perceived as a path to freedom and success, but it comes with its own set of challenges. Donna and Isaiah share their personal experiences and insights on how to overcome these obstacles, whether you're a solopreneur or transitioning to a fractional executive role. Listeners will gain valuable advice on: - The myths and realities of replacing yourself in business. - The impact of AI on job searches and the hiring process. - The rise of fractional work and its implications for career growth. - Strategies for staying innovative and adapting to market changes. Join us for an empowering conversation that offers practical tips and inspiration for taking control of your career and achieving business success. If you're ready to take your career and business to the next level, this episode is for you.

In this engaging episode of Career Leadership, hosts Donna Serdula and Isaiah Hankel explore the significance of seizing opportunities and leveraging the power of storytelling to advance in your career. The episode begins with Donna sharing a personal story about her husband's unique experience as a leap day baby, which led to an appearance on the Today Show. Through this anecdote, Donna illustrates how quickly jumping on opportunities and crafting compelling narratives can make a difference. Isaiah and Donna delve into the importance of persistence and following through on applications and proposals, despite initial doubts or fears. They discuss the common challenges job seekers face, such as self-doubt and fear of rejection, and offer strategies to overcome these obstacles. Isaiah emphasizes the concept of "deal momentum" and how maintaining enthusiasm and dedication throughout the application process can set you apart from others. The hosts also highlight the value of presenting yourself well, both in terms of appearance and how you articulate your achievements. Donna shares her experience of coaching her husband for the Today Show appearance, stressing the impact of going the extra mile to look polished and professional. As the conversation progresses, Isaiah and Donna address the importance of building self-belief and overcoming imposter syndrome. They discuss practical techniques, such as creating lists of reasons why you're the best fit for a job and visualizing success, to enhance your confidence and performance. Listeners will gain valuable insights into how to embrace discomfort, persist through challenges, and effectively communicate their unique value. This episode provides actionable advice and inspiration for anyone looking to elevate their career and seize new opportunities. Tune in to learn how to harness the power of storytelling, persistence, and self-belief to achieve your career goals.

In this engaging episode of Career Leadership, hosts Donna Serdula and Isaiah Hankel delve into the transformative role of AI in identifying success indicators in the workplace. They kick off with a lively discussion on the impact of coffee on productivity before diving into the heart of the matter: how companies are utilizing AI to analyze historical data and resumes to pinpoint characteristics of high-performing employees. Donna reflects on the implications of this approach, raising important questions about innovation and diversity. Isaiah provides insights into the use of AI, emphasizing the importance of recognizing patterns while also considering the human elements that machines can't fully replicate. The conversation expands to cover the importance of personal branding and the value of showcasing one's humanity and personality in professional settings. Isaiah shares his thoughts on the need for professionals to demonstrate extracurricular activities and sports involvement as indicators of well-roundedness and leadership potential. As they navigate the complexities of AI and human interaction, Donna and Isaiah highlight the significance of maintaining executive presence, optimizing personal performance, and staying innovative. They discuss practical strategies like implementing reset routines and understanding the role of physical and mental priming in achieving career success. Listeners will gain valuable insights into how to leverage AI insights without losing the essential human touch, ensuring they can stand out and excel in an increasingly automated world. Whether you're a job seeker, an executive, or a professional aiming to level up, this episode offers actionable advice and thought-provoking perspectives to help you navigate your career journey. Tune in to discover how to harness AI indicators of success and combine them with your unique human strengths to achieve your career goals.

Anxiety to Action: Leadership Routines for Career Success with Donna Serdula and Isaiah Hankel Are you ready to take control of your career and elevate your professional game? Tune in to this dynamic episode of Career Leadership with hosts Donna Serdula and Isaiah Hankel as they dive deep into the transformative power of routines, personal branding, and career autonomy. Highlights of the Episode: 🌟 Nighttime Routines for Success: Discover how controlling your nighttime routine can set the stage for a productive day. Learn actionable tips from Donna and Isaiah on how to manage middle-of-the-night anxieties and turn them into powerful insights. 🌟 Embracing Stress and Challenges: Feel the adrenaline rush as our hosts compare nighttime anxieties to the nerves before a competitive event. Find out why embracing stress and challenges can lead to a more exciting and fulfilling career. 🌟 Empowering Professionals and Executives: Donna shares her passion for helping professionals up-level their careers and executives who aim to empower others. Get inspired by real stories of career transformations and the importance of steering your career with a clear vision. 🌟 Building Autonomy and Personal Brands: Isaiah emphasizes the need for building something autonomous, whether it’s consulting, coaching, or a side hustle. Donna highlights the value of developing a personal brand that reflects your unique skills and aspirations. 🌟 Strategic Career Pivoting: Learn how to evolve from tactical roles to strategic, high-level positions. Donna and Isaiah discuss the importance of leveraging knowledge and experience to stay ahead in your career. 🌟 Professional Growth and Vision: Explore the necessity of continuous growth and maintaining a sense of purpose in your professional journey. Donna and Isaiah share insights on avoiding burnout and keeping your career trajectory on the rise. 🌟 Deep Marketing and Client Relationships: Inspired by Taylor Swift’s marketing genius, Donna reveals her strategy for building strong client relationships and providing a deeper, more comprehensive service experience. This episode is packed with valuable advice, engaging anecdotes, and actionable strategies for anyone looking to take control of their career. Whether you’re a job seeker aiming to level up or an executive striving to empower others, this conversation will leave you motivated and equipped to make bold moves in your professional life. Don’t miss out on this empowering episode! Hit play now and start your journey towards a more successful, fulfilling career.

In this engaging and insightful conversation, Donna Serdula and Isaiah Hankel explore the core elements of Trust, Neutrality, and In-person Interactions in career leadership. They dive into the importance of maintaining a balanced mindset by embracing neutral thinking while also battling negativity with a positive outlook. The discussion highlights the empowering benefit of detaching from emotions to make objective decisions and the significance of redefining fear into something more positive. Donna and Isaiah emphasize the value of real-life connections, urging job seekers to step out from behind their screens, show up in person, and develop authentic relationships. They paint a picture of a future where human-to-human interactions are more crucial than ever, presenting practical advice and motivational insights for thriving in today's career landscape.