LEAVE YOUR MARK: Freshly Brewed Career Advice with Aliza Licht

Why do some people move ahead even when they’re underprepared — while others hold back until they’re overprepared? The secret often comes down to a simple mindset shift: act as if. In this episode, I dive into the science of why confidence in motion creates momentum, the dangers of overdoing it, and practical ways you can harness “acting as if” to grow into the career you want.

What happens when employees don’t quit—but instead break quietly on the inside? Welcome to quiet cracking, the hidden crisis of the modern workplace. In this 15-minute deep dive, I trace how we got here—from the Great Resignation to the Big Stay—and share real stories, mental health insights, and practical solutions. Whether you’re an employee feeling the strain or a manager trying to lead through it, you’ll walk away with tools to spot the signs, prevent burnout, and rebuild trust at work.

The pandemic made the “nice boss” the gold standard—leaders who prioritized empathy, flexibility, and understanding. But as Forbes Senior Contributor Caroline Castrillon reports, that era is ending. In today’s results-driven workplace, leaders are dialing back on perks, flattening hierarchies, and adopting tougher, more direct management styles. In this episode of Leave Your Mark, I break down what’s driving this shift, the risks of going too far, and how to strike the right balance between compassion and accountability. You’ll hear: The “mean boss” playbook—and why it’s on the rise Real-world examples Expanded tips for managers to lead with kind candor Actionable advice for employees to prove their value in measurable terms Whether you’re leading a team or working within one, this episode is your guide to navigating—and thriving in—the new leadership reality.

What makes a novel go from page-turner to cult classic? Aspiring novelists: This one’s for you. In this episode of Leave Your Mark, I sit down with Christopher J. Yates, a British-American novelist known for his works in the dark academia genre. His first novel, Black Chalk, was named best book of the year by NPR, and continues to haunt readers 10 years later. In his latest masterpiece, Yates delivers for his fans with his new novel, The Rabbit Club, which follows an American student at Oxford. Add a secret society with a sinister streak, and it has an unexpected twist you won’t see coming. But what’s the secret to writing psychological thrillers? Christopher shares his writing process, the evolution of his novels, and the cultivation of a dedicated fan base. The conversation delves into character development, the significance of plot twists, and the challenges of navigating the publishing industry, including rejection and reader feedback. Tune in to discover Yates’s insights on storytelling and learn how you can elevate your own writing. 00:00 Introduction to Leave Your Mark Podcast 00:24 Exploring Dark Academia with Christopher J. Yates 02:13 Cultivating a Fan Base: The Black Chalk Experience 04:39 The Writing Process: From Black Chalk to The Rabbit Club 06:35 Character Development and Dialogue 09:58 Writing Timelines: Black Chalk vs. The Rabbit Club 11:24 Daily Writing Routines and Overcoming Writer's Block 13:47 Plotting and Puzzles in Storytelling 15:39 The Role of Secret Societies in The Rabbit Club 19:02 Target Audience and Themes in The Rabbit Club 22:18 Navigating Plot Twists and Character Development 24:45 Feedback and the Writing Process 28:01 The Journey to Finding an Agent 29:54 Dealing with Rejection and Reader Feedback 33:46 Leaving a Mark in the Literary World

In this episode of Leave Your Mark, my dear friend and special co-host Samantha Ettus joins me to unpack what happens when people and institutions get their apologies disastrously wrong. From a Vice President at Penguin Random House reposting a vile mockery of an innocent Jewish woman’s murder, to the New York Times publishing a dangerously misleading story about starvation in Gaza, we explore how these failures not only erode public trust but also fuel antisemitism. This episode goes beyond PR missteps to unpack the moral and societal cost of bad apologies, and the silence that often follows them. With candor, urgency, and clarity, we break down: - Why the “I didn’t read it” excuse doesn’t fly when you’re an editor - The anatomy of a real apology and the red flags that scream deflection - What the New York Times gets consistently wrong about Israel and the Jewish people - How modern journalism is failing at its duty and what that means for public safety - Why brands and institutions must speak out and what silence really signals This is more than a conversation about saying sorry. It’s about who gets protected, who gets harmed, and what real accountability looks like in a world where perception is power. Listen now to learn what to look for — and demand — when an apology isn’t enough. 00:00 Introduction to Leave Your Mark 00:28 The Art of Public Apologies 01:21 Case Study: Doubleday Books VP Apology 03:36 The Incident and Its Aftermath 05:48 Analyzing the Apology 10:18 Case Study: The New York Times Apology 16:10 The Role of Journalism and Accountability 26:03 Concluding Thoughts and Future Discussions

Gwyneth Paltrow is more than an Oscar-winning actress. She is a wellness mogul, a branding mastermind, and one of the most polarizing women in Hollywood and beyond. But how did she go from red carpet royalty to CEO of a global and controversial empire? In this episode of Leave Your Mark, I’m joined (again!) by New York Times bestselling author Amy Odell, whose new book Gwyneth: The Biography pulls back the curtain on the strategy, ambition, and missteps behind one of the most talked-about careers in pop culture. We explore Amy's extensive research process that took three years and included interviewing over 220 people. Amy shares insights on Gwyneth Paltrow's life, her hotly debated and influential persona, her ventures with Goop, her leadership style, and the controversies that follow her. We also delve into the implications of Gwyneth's influence on the wellness industry and her uncanny ability to reinvent herself while maintaining a strong personal brand. We dig into: - Gwyneth as a boss and businesswoman - The backlash that became part of her brand - How she built Goop into a cultural force and what it cost her - What Amy learned from reporting on one of the most image-controlled women in the world Plus, Amy shares her own career journey from journalist to biographer, what it takes to profile powerful women, and the surprising lessons Gwyneth's story offers for anyone building a brand or navigating their own reinvention. This episode is equal parts Hollywood tea and hard-won career advice. You do not want to miss it. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:28 Introducing Amy Odell and Her Work 01:20 Amy's Career Evolution and Writing Process 05:00 Challenges of Writing Unauthorized Biographies 06:44 Gwyneth Paltrow's Influence and Brand 16:13 Gwyneth's Leadership Style at Goop 23:31 Gwyneth's Media Strategy 23:47 Goop's Controversial Products 24:40 Gwyneth's Leadership Style 25:30 Challenges at Goop 26:43 Working with Founders 29:40 Gwyneth's Reinvention 33:53 Nepo Baby Debate 36:11 Harvey Weinstein Relationship 38:02 Public Perception of Gwyneth 41:10 Conclusion and Reflections

In this episode of Leave Your Mark, I sit down with the dynamic Sarah Fraser, host of The Sarah Fraser Show. We dive into Sarah's transformative journey from her early broadcasting days in DC to establishing her podcast empire. Sarah shares vivid anecdotes from her career, including the challenges of being asked to tone down her voice in corporate settings, her experience with cancel culture (plus how she survived!), and finding her authentic broadcasting voice. We also delve into Sarah's unique career advice for maintaining authenticity and dreaming big, including her exciting plans for leveraging AI and expanding her reach internationally. This episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone looking to make their mark in the media industry.

When you walk into a room with confidence, people treat you differently. But why? And how can you build that kind of presence—even when you're still figuring things out? In this solo episode inspired by a simple but powerful idea from my daughter, I dive deep into the psychology of confidence. Backed by science, real-world case studies, and insight from Harvard Business School, I explore why confidence—not perfection—is often what moves the needle in your career.

In this episode of Leave Your Mark, I sit down with the multi-talented, Jonah Platt, actor, writer, and host of the hit podcast, Being Jewish with Jonah Platt. As a powerful advocate for Jewish identity, Jonah is someone who has thought deeply about how we communicate in complex, high-stakes moments. We explore what it means to build a career in a polarized environment and how Jonah’s recent ADHD diagnosis has reshaped the way he sees himself and shows up in the world. We discuss the tools we all need to navigate difficult conversations, those that arise at work, in friendships, within families, and online. Jonah shares his "4 C’s" of effective communication, and we unpack the concept of secondary messaging, exploring how people speak in code, avoid clarity, or remain silent when the stakes feel too high. We also explore what it takes to truly own your identity, especially when the room gets quiet, when it may come at a cost, or when you're still figuring it out yourself. 00:00 Introduction 01:22 Jonah Platt's Upbringing and Early Career 03:22 Transition to Acting and TV Writing 07:29 Jewish Identity and Advocacy 11:10 Impact of October 7th and Public Response 18:33 Starting a Podcast and Future Plans 20:21 The Challenges of Starting a Podcast 21:25 The Impact of Podcasting on Career 22:20 Memorable Conversations 23:23 The Four Cs of Difficult Conversations 29:04 Diagnosed with adult ADHD 37:37 Upcoming Projects and Future Plans 39:07 Leaving a Mark

In a world saturated with brand collaborations, how do you stand out? In this episode of Leave Your Mark, I sit down with Julie Turkel, a leading brand licensing expert who has helped shape some of the most successful fashion and lifestyle collaborations of the past two decades. From her early corporate days at Nickelodeon and Discovery to launching her own boutique agency, Julie has made it her mission to help designers, influencers, and creative entrepreneurs scale their businesses through strategic licensing. We dive into how she spots the “magic” in a brand, why maintaining brand DNA is essential in today’s oversaturated market, and how social media has changed the game for creative growth. Julie also shares actionable advice on how artists can protect their creative IP and avoid common licensing pitfalls that can cost them long-term equity. Whether you’re an artist, designer, or founder looking to take your brand to the next level, this episode is packed with expert insights on how to grow and protect what you’ve built—without compromising your creative integrity.

Is your résumé getting ghosted by a bot? In this snack segment of Leave Your Mark, I delve into the frustrating experience of applying for jobs and not hearing back, even after submitting a perfectly crafted resume. Highlighting the case of Derek Mobley who sued Workday over AI bias, I provide actionable resume tips to beat the bots used by major companies. Learn how to format your resume to be ATS-friendly and the importance of leveraging your network to get past automated screening systems. Plus, insights into the evolving legal landscape around AI in hiring and practical advice from my book 'Leave Your Mark.'

In this episode of Leave Your Mark, I sit down with my friend Claudia Chan, an award-winning serial entrepreneur, New York Times bestselling author, keynote speaker, and Whole-Self Leadership™ coach. She has dedicated half of her life to empowering women and the cultures in which they work and live. Her B2B company, S.H.E GLOBL, has focused on coaching entrepreneurs and corporations to be changemakers. Over the last decade, her annual S.H.E. Summit has convened 600 renowned speakers from over 400 companies, including Morgan Stanley, ESPN, Google, Bacardi Global, and PepsiCo. In this episode, we delve into her concept of the 'Invisible Epidemic,' exploring the hidden burnout and anxiety that plague high achievers. Claudia shares her personal journey and the inspiration behind her focus on Whole-Self Leadership™ and faith. We discuss the cognitive patterns driving burnout, the importance of aligning outward performance with inner truth, and Claudia's IHAC framework for creating a more fulfilling life. Tune in to learn how to lead your life with wholeness and passion. 00:00 Introduction to Leave Your Mark 00:34 Meet Claudia Chan: Leadership Coach and Speaker 01:01 The Invisible Epidemic: Burnout and Anxiety 03:26 Understanding the Mind-Body Connection 04:55 Patterns in High Performers 06:37 The Burnout Baller and Major Life Transitions 10:36 Aligning Outward Performance with Inner Truth 12:30 The IHAC Framework: Imagination, Healing, Alignment 17:17 The Bridge to a New Paradigm 18:02 The Courage to Create the Future 18:57 Unfulfilled Potential and Low-Grade Depression 20:16 Leading Your Own Life 21:09 Balancing Multiple Roles and Avoiding Burnout 24:13 The Importance of Passion-Driven Work 25:00 Energy Management and Productivity 30:00 The Role of Family and Heritage 31:36 Defining Success and Wholeness 33:23 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In today’s workplace, transparency is expected—but how much is too much? In this episode, I break down the new rules of leadership transparency, spotlighting recent real-world examples from JPMorgan, Meta, Delta, and Business Insider. You’ll hear what those companies got wrong—and what they could have done better. Plus, I share a practical decision-making filter to help leaders decide what to share, when to share it, and how to do it without eroding trust. You’ll learn: When transparency builds trust—and when it backfires The difference between honesty and oversharing What to say when you don’t have all the answers A 5-question leadership filter to guide communication How to avoid performative openness and drive real connection Whether you're a seasoned executive or a first-time manager, this episode is your toolkit for navigating transparency with clarity, empathy, and intention.

In this episode of Leave Your Mark, I sit down with history-making polar explorer, mountaineer, and leadership expert Alison Levine. We delve into her incredible journey from the boardrooms of Goldman Sachs to leading the first American women's Everest expedition and completing the Adventure Grand Slam despite having Raynaud's disease and undergoing three heart surgeries. Alison shares her insights on leadership in extreme environments, overcoming personal limits, and the importance of resilience. We also discuss her experiences at Goldman Sachs, her tenure as a leadership professor at West Point, and the valuable lessons she learned from the top of some of the world's tallest mountains. Not to mention incredible insights from her book, On the Edge. Find out how Alison's failures paved the way for her eventual successes and her approach to risk management both in the mountains and in corporate settings. Don't miss her profound thoughts on the true goals of mountaineering, the importance of resilience, and the power of encouragement.

In this episode of Leave Your Mark, I sit down with Stacey Ross Cohen, CEO and founder of Co-Communications, bestselling author of the Brand Up series, TEDx speaker, and marketing professor, to discuss personal branding and career advancement for early professionals. The conversation dives into the essentials of beginner personal branding, highlighting a three-step framework from Stacey's book, Brand Up 2.0: Propel Your Early Career Success. It features invaluable career-building best practices and helps young adults tell unique stories highlighting their best selves and answering the million-dollar question: Why Choose You? Stacey shares insights on leveraging LinkedIn, networking, and the balance between content creation and genuine engagement. She also offers practical advice for young professionals on effective job application strategies and how to make a lasting impression during interviews. Additionally, the episode touches on the crucial role of follow-up skills and the nuanced use of LinkedIn's 'open to work' feature. No matter your career path or goals, Stacey's insights will teach you how to craft your professional digital presence and set you up for success. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 01:30 Target Audience for the Book 02:35 Understanding Personal Branding 04:39 Personal Branding in 3D Framework 06:24 Delivering Your Value 10:32 Navigating Social Media and Algorithms 13:58 Graduation Tips and Job Market Insights 18:31 Networking and Interviewing Skills 21:40 Brand Up Book Overview 28:39 Open to Work on LinkedIn 32:32 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Mastering the Art of Giving and Receiving Feedback Welcome back to Leave Your Mark. In this episode, I delve into the essential skill of feedback—how to give it effectively and how to receive it with grace. I'll provide a step-by-step guide on giving timely, specific, and constructive feedback, including practical examples and methods like the SBI (Situation, Behavior, Impact) framework. On receiving feedback, I'll cover how to regulate your emotional response, seek clarity, and act on advice. Whether you're a manager or climbing the corporate ladder, these tips will help you use feedback as a tool for professional growth. Tune in to learn how to transform feedback from a source of anxiety into a catalyst for personal and career development.

In this eye-opening episode of Leave Your Mark, I sit down with Catherine Fisher, LinkedIn's career expert, to explore the critical skills you need to stay competitive in today's rapidly evolving job market. Catherine shares invaluable insights on AI literacy, conflict resolution, and how to seamlessly incorporate new skills into your professional life. We also discuss the best ways to optimize your LinkedIn profile to attract top recruiters and stand out from the crowd. Whether you're actively job hunting, considering a career pivot, or aiming to stay relevant, this episode is packed with actionable advice and real-world examples to help you take control of your career journey.   00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:27 Navigating the Uncertain Job Market 01:45 Future-Proofing Your Career with Skills 03:56 The Importance of Soft Skills 04:57 Leveraging AI in Your Career 06:29 Conflict Resolution in the Workplace 08:24 Self-Assessment and Skill Development 13:30 Optimizing Your LinkedIn Profile 14:53 Job Market Trends and Strategies 16:53 Personal Branding and Visibility 32:01 Final Thoughts and Conclusion

In this episode of Leave Your Mark, I chat with my former colleague and friend, Marina Luri, the founder and creative director of Marina Luri Events. Marina shares her inspiring journey from working in high-profile fashion PR to becoming one of the most sought-after event planners in the world, with offices in New York, Connecticut, and Italy. With over two decades of designing jaw-dropping events across the US and Europe, she's the mastermind behind high-profile weddings, galas, and private events that feature celebrity performances. Word of mouth is everything in an industry where you're as good as your last event. Marina's commitment to maintaining discretion — especially with high-profile clients — has kept her at the top. We dive into how her background in fashion influences her event designs, the challenges of running her own business, and her strategies for managing high-profile, luxurious events. Marina also discusses the importance of mentorship and her passion for helping the next generation of creatives. Tune in for some rich insights and career advice that you can put into action right away!

Parents Please Don't Let Your College Kid Blow Their Summer Internship: Let's face it—most students aren't prepared for what real-world work demands. School doesn't teach soft skills like communication, professionalism, or how to read a room. That's where this episode steps in. It's a no-fluff guide to help young professionals show up, stand out, and succeed as summer interns. I cover the crucial skills and attitudes needed to succeed in a professional environment, including the importance of presence, professionalism, and people skills. I stress the importance of punctuality, effective email communication, and leveraging social capital. You'll also learn about the significance of building relationships, appropriate social media usage, and the value of asking thoughtful questions. As I emphasize throughout the episode, internships are auditions for future roles, and how you show up can set the tone for your entire career. This is the definitive guide to help your college student not only survive their internship—but thrive. 00:00 Introduction to Leave Your Mark 00:29 Special Episode for Parents and College Students 01:53 The Reality of Internships 03:20 Building Your Personal Brand 04:32 Effective Communication Skills 07:23 The Importance of Soft Skills 09:04 Networking and Building Relationships 11:33 Social Media Etiquette for Interns 14:03 Collaboration Over Competition 15:15 Asking Questions and Seeking Feedback 16:44 Concluding Advice and Final Thoughts

In this episode of Leave Your Mark, I sit down with marketing executive Dina Fierro. With over 15 years of experience in driving digital marketing for luxury brands like Christian Louboutin, NARS, and Shiseido Americas. Dina’s career is all about taking bold steps and navigating through unexplored territories, particularly in digital innovation. She has a knack for seeing what’s next and is fearless in making those leaps. That’s something many are too cautious to embrace, especially in today's corporate America, where playing it safe often feels like the more reinforced path. In this episode, Dina shares her career journey and insights on embracing curiosity and risk. One of the things Dina is particularly adept at is building influence within an organization before pitching innovative ideas. She values relationships and understands the importance of having those connections when leading significant change. By spending time with colleagues and stakeholders, she shapes her pitches, making them more aligned with the broader business goals and grounded in real data and consumer insights. The discussion delves into the importance of personal branding, the evolution of consumer engagement through emerging technologies, and the shift towards more immersive and personalized marketing strategies. Tune in to learn from Dina's fearless and forward-thinking career path.