Successfully Ambiguous?

What if personal branding isn’t about performing — but about becoming more of who you already are?In this episode of Successfully Ambiguous, host Christine Brooks-Cappadocia speaks with Leigh Mitchell, founder of Changemaker Leader Podcast, about self-leadership, career growth, and authentic personal branding.Leigh works with high-impact leaders, laid-off professionals, and burned-out business owners to help them reconnect with their identity, rebuild confidence, and realign their personal brand with the true depth of their impact. Together, they explore how career growth often requires shedding old shells, questioning outdated leadership narratives, and learning to lead from purpose instead of performance.If you’re navigating career change, rethinking your leadership style, or wondering how to stand out without pretending, this conversation is for you.In this episode, we discuss:• What self-leadership really is — and why it matters• The “lobster analogy” for career growth and reinvention• Why old strategies might no longer serve you• How to identify your leadership DNA and core values• Why interviews should be a two-way process• What it means to lead with humanity in the age of AIFollow Leigh Mitchell:Instagram: @changemakerleaderLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mitchellleigh/Join the conversation with today's leaders and share your career questions. Make sure to subscribe, like, and share!  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join the conversation with today's leaders and share your career questions. Make sure to subscribe, like, and share!  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Olatunji Saliu shares his journey of rebuilding his career in Canada, turning early setbacks into opportunities, and discovering clarity as the driving force behind creative and professional success. From navigating the barriers of “Canadian experience” to launching his own photography business and founding a charity that provides school uniforms to students in need, Olatunji’s story is a powerful reminder of resilience and purpose.We explore what founders often misunderstand about entrepreneurship, how creative leaders can give better feedback, and why creating clarity is the most underrated skill in work and life.Whether you’re transitioning careers, leading a team, or thinking about starting something of your own, this conversation offers practical insights and inspiration to help you move forward with confidence.About Olatunji SaliuA creative entrepreneur, photographer, and nonprofit founder, Olatunji blends storytelling with social impact. His work spans creative leadership, community development, and the immigrant experience — always grounded in clarity, empathy, and purpose.Join the conversation with today's leaders and share your career questions. Make sure to subscribe, like, and share!  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How do you build a successful career in Canada—quickly?When Ramiz Essani arrived in Canada, he secured a job in his field in just 53 days. In this episode, he shares the mindset shifts, job-search strategies, and practical steps that helped him make it happen.Ramiz opens up about staying motivated during unemployment, building an online presence that employers trust, and why “smart work” beats mass-applying to hundreds of jobs. His insights are especially valuable for newcomers, career-changers, and anyone trying to stand out in a competitive market.In this episode: • How Ramiz got hired in 53 days • Why applying to 500 jobs rarely works • How volunteering can boost your career • Tips for building a strong online presence • Smarter ways to tailor your resumé and networkIf you’re navigating the Canadian job market or planning a career pivot, this conversation offers clear, practical advice you can put into action today.For more episodes and resources, follow the podcast wherever you listen.Join the conversation with today's leaders and share your career questions. Make sure to subscribe, like, and share!  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Privacy matters — because trust is everything.In this episode of Successfully Ambiguous, host Christine Brooks-Cappadocia (AVP, Continuing Studies at York University) sits down with Peter Kosmala, global privacy expert and York instructor, to explore how data culture differs across the U.S., Canada, and Europe, revealing why protecting what’s personal has never been more important.From cybersecurity and transparency to managing your digital footprint, this conversation reveals how privacy has evolved into a cornerstone of digital trust and ethical innovation.What you’ll learn:Why privacy is cultural and what that means for global businessHow cybersecurity and privacy work hand in handWhat Canadian organizations can do to build transparency and complianceHow job seekers can protect their digital reputation and data rightsWhat “the right to be forgotten” really means — and what it doesn’tSpecial offer (expires January 2026):Save $100 on York University’s Information Privacy program.Use code SuccessfullyIP when registering for the next cohort.Learn more or apply:https://continue.yorku.ca/programs/certificate-in-information-privacy/This promotional code is non-transferable, has no cash value, and may not be combined with other offers.Have a question or career story to share?Email: successfullyambiguous@yorku.caJoin the conversation with today's leaders and share your career questions. Make sure to subscribe, like, and share!  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How do you build something meaningful when the odds are stacked against you?In this episode of Successfully Ambiguous, Olu Villasa, Program Manager at the Black Entrepreneurship Alliance (BEA), shares how lived experience, purpose and community can turn barriers into opportunities — and how BEA is helping reshape entrepreneurship in Canada.Plus, stay tuned for an exclusive offer for professionals ready to take the next step in their career.🎓 SPECIAL OFFER FOR LISTENERS – SAVE $100 ON TUITION at York University School of Continuing Studies• Certificate in Business Process Improvement — Code: SuccessfullyBPI (Exp. Mar 2 2026)Non-transferable; cannot be combined with other offers.Join the conversation with today's leaders and share your career questions. Make sure to subscribe, like, and share!  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Meet Dr. Christine Sawchuk, President and CEO of the Canadian Institute of Chartered Business Valuators (CICBV), to explore a career path that’s not just rewarding—it’s practically guaranteed. With a near 100% employment rate, business valuation is one of Canada’s most secure and in-demand professions.Christine shares how this field is critical to navigating succession planning, legal disputes, and the valuation of intangible assets in today’s tech-driven economy. We also talk about the unique challenges women face in advancing their careers—including the tendency to hold back from applying unless they meet every single qualification. Christine’s advocacy for women and underrepresented groups is both personal and powerful, and her own journey from accountant to educator to CEO (and now Doctor Sawchuk) is a testament to lifelong learning and bold career pivots.If you’ve ever hesitated to raise your hand for an opportunity, this episode will inspire you to rethink what’s possible.Join the conversation with today's leaders and share your career questions. Make sure to subscribe, like, and share!  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Maham Abbasi, entrepreneur and founder of the No Shame Project, joins Christine Brooks-Cappadocia to share her journey of turning advocacy into impact. From challenging stigmas around period poverty to supporting students in education and study abroad, Maham shows how purpose and passion can build stronger futures.Join the conversation with today's leaders and share your career questions. Make sure to subscribe, like, and share!  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Meet Gayathri Rajamohan—one of only five global finalists for the prestigious PIEoneer Alumni of the Year Award and the only from a Canadian institution. Her story is one of courage, community, and commitment to empowering women in cybersecurity.In our conversation, Gayathri shares how her upbringing, her father’s example of service, and her own journey as an international student shaped her passion for giving back. From founding “Ladies Leading Cyber” to mentoring students in Canada and abroad, she’s helping others see themselves in tech—and thrive.We talk about:The cultural shift from India to Canada and how it shaped her confidenceWhy asking for help is a superpowerThe joy and growth that come from volunteeringHer experience as a teaching assistant and what she’s learned from her studentsWhat it felt like to be shortlisted for a global award—and what’s nextThis episode is full of heart, insight, and practical advice for anyone navigating change, especially international students and women in tech. Gayathri’s story reminds us that success isn’t just about personal achievement—it’s about lifting others as you rise.Tune in and be inspired. Join the conversation with today's leaders and share your career questions. Make sure to subscribe, like, and share!  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When I first met Dana Stephenson nearly a decade ago, we were both deep in the trenches of trying to solve a problem that still challenges educators and employers today: how do we prepare students for a future that’s anything but predictable? In this episode, I sit down with Dana—co-founder of Riipen, a platform that connects students, educators, and employers through real-world project-based learning—to talk about the power of work-integrated learning, the importance of durable human skills, and how we can better equip learners to thrive in a world shaped by rapid change and AI. Dana’s journey is anything but linear, and that’s exactly what makes it so relatable. From construction sites and telemarketing calls to founding a company that’s reshaping education-to-employment pathways, his story is a testament to the value of adaptability, empathy, and learning by doing. We also reflect on our shared belief in the transformative potential of experiential learning—something that brought us together years ago and continues to drive our work today. Whether you're a student wondering how to talk about your project experience in a job interview, an educator looking to bring real-world relevance into your classroom, or an employer trying to hire for potential rather than pedigree, this conversation is packed with insights and inspiration. Join us as we explore how to embrace ambiguity, build resilience, and create more inclusive, impactful learning experiences for all.  Join the conversation with today's leaders and share your career questions. Make sure to subscribe, like, and share!  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Successfully Ambiguous, I sit down with Erick Bauer, a fellow communicator, educator, and changemaker. Erick is the Head of External Relations at Meridian Credit Union, Founder of the Bauer Group, author, host of The Bottom Line with Erick Bauer podcast, and passionate about giving back to his community.Erick shares his journey from policing to public relations, and how he’s used every twist and turn to build a career rooted in purpose. We talk about the power of personal branding, the importance of mentorship, and why building authentic connections—not just sending out resumes—is the key to career success.We also dive into Erick’s upcoming book, his experience living with cystic fibrosis, and how that’s shaped his resilience and leadership. And yes, we talk podcasts too—his show The Bottom Line is a must-listen for anyone who believes in the power of storytelling.This episode is a heartfelt, practical, and inspiring listen for anyone navigating a career path that doesn’t follow a straight line.Join us for a conversation that’s as real as it is hopeful—and find out how Erick is helping shape the Canada we all want to build.Join the conversation with today's leaders and share your career questions. Make sure to subscribe, like, and share!  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I first met Katherine Chong when she was helping our School build Canada’s first academic program in Product Management. I was struck by her fearless curiosity and the way she turned a sabbatical into a masterclass in human connection. In this episode, I sit down with Katherine—product manager, startup coach, instructor, and cultural consultant for Pixar’s Turning Red—to talk about how 300 conversations with strangers reshaped her career, her mindset, and her sense of purpose.We dive into how she navigated burnout, embraced “funemployment,” and discovered the power of asking without an agenda. Katherine’s story is a reminder that sometimes the best opportunities come when we stop chasing titles and start following our curiosity. From cold emails to consulting for an Oscar-nominated film, her journey is anything but traditional—and that’s exactly why it’s so powerful.Tune in to hear how Katherine:Used curiosity as a compass to reinvent her careerBuilt a network from scratch during a global pandemicHelped shape the cultural authenticity of Turning RedCoaches others to find their own path in product management and entrepreneurshipThis conversation is personal for me—not just because of Katherine’s incredible story, but because it reflects the kind of bold, human-centered thinking we need more of in today’s workforce.Join the conversation with today's leaders and share your career questions. Make sure to subscribe, like, and share!  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I sit down with someone I deeply admire and have had the pleasure of getting to know through the Canadian Chamber of Commerce—Diana Palmerín Velasco, Senior Director, Future of Work. Diana brings a rare combination of lived experience as a newcomer and deep policy expertise that makes her voice essential in today’s conversations about immigration, labour, and the future of work in Canada.Diana and I talk candidly about the real challenges facing newcomers—especially highly skilled immigrants and international students—when they arrive in Canada. She shares her own journey of taking two years to land her first job, despite holding a master’s degree from the UK, and a PhD and speaking fluent English. We explore how this disconnect between talent and opportunity is not just a personal loss, but a national one.We also dive into:The unintended consequences of recent immigration policy shiftsWhy employers across Canada—from Yellowknife to Niagara—are struggling to find workersThe critical role of temporary foreign workers and international students in sustaining our economyHow AI is reshaping hiring and what that means for equity and inclusionThe urgent need for collaboration between employers, educators, settlement agencies, and governmentWhether you're an employer trying to fill roles, a newcomer navigating the job market, an international student planning your future, or a policy maker shaping Canada's workforce strategy—this conversation is for you.Diana’s insights are honest, hopeful, and grounded in both data and humanity. I left this conversation inspired, and I think you will too.🔗 Tune in now and let’s rethink how we welcome talent—and how we build a future of work that works for everyone.Join the conversation with today's leaders and share your career questions. Make sure to subscribe, like, and share!  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What do you do when the job you’ve worked so hard to land turns out to be nothing like you imagined—on day one?In this episode, I’m joined by the vibrant Michelle Aarons, who shares the story of how her dream job quickly became a wake-up call. But instead of letting that moment define her, Michelle used it as a catalyst for growth, clarity, and purpose.We talk about:The power of reframing disappointment into motivationWhat leaders and hiring managers can learn from her experienceWhy embracing boundless opportunity is more than just a mindset—it’s a strategyMichelle is a TEDx speaker, a lifelong learner currently pursuing her master’s, and an award-winning professional who brings energy, insight, and authenticity to everything she does. I first met her when she was building a continuous learning unit at another university, and now I’m lucky to work alongside her at the York University School of Continuing Studies. If you’ve ever questioned your path or needed a reminder that setbacks can be springboards, this conversation is for you.Join the conversation with today's leaders and share your career questions. Make sure to subscribe, like, and share!  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How important is it to ask for help along your career path? Do you wonder how some people have the confidence to build their network and try new things? In a motivating and enlightening conversation with Anika Forde we delve into how to live from a place of abundance and have the confidence to ask for the support you need to take the next step on your career path. Anika opens up about her own career as a multi-hyphenated woman and shares her surprising journey into angel investing. Her experience is a testament to continuous learning, the power of believing in yourself and the value of growing your network of support. You’ll gain practical strategies that can help you do the same. I met Anika in her role as Director of Research & Programs at the Jean Augustine Chair in Education, Community & Diaspora, but she is also the Founding Principal at Forde Consult Group. A believer in lifelong learning, she is pursuing her doctorate, focusing on how we can leverage technology, education, and our experiences to dismantle barriers and advocate for equitable, human-centered approaches to AI use in our daily lives.  As a committed angel investor, she champions women-led tech startups and maintains diverse investments in tech, agriculture, and real estate spanning Canada, US, West Africa, and the Middle East. Anika is deeply passionate about the practical applications of AI, exploring how artificial intelligence is transforming work, education, and entrepreneurship.  Don’t miss out on this chance to arm yourself with knowledge that’s crucial for your career success! Like, subscribe, and engage with us by sending your comments and questions. Together, we’ll build a foundation of knowledge so that when opportunity knocks, you will be ready to answer with confidence! Join the conversation with today's leaders and share your career questions. Make sure to subscribe, like, and share!  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How important is it to fit in with Canadian culture to get a job? Do you wonder how to excel in a job interview? In a frank discussion with Richard Pinnock of Diversity of Thought we delve into how to navigate the challenges and opportunities of diversity to impress and add value to your employer of choice! Richard has inspired thousands of young people with his leadership training on how to embrace and leverage diverse experiences and thinking. He has made a difference throughout his career in the public and private sectors promoting equity for all. Richard even had my role years ago and this conversation is packed with professional and personal insights that will help you as you strive for success.  Richard Pinnock is the President of Diversity of Thought Institute. He recently retired from Export Development Canada (EDC) as Director, Chief Diversity Officer. His professional experience spans Public, Private, Education, Professional Services, and Not-for-Profit sectors. He received an M.B.A. (International Marketing), from York University in Toronto after completing a Bachelor of Commerce (Entrepreneurship) at McGill University in Montréal. Prior organizations Richard has worked with include: Purolator Courier, Royal Canadian Mint, ClientLogic (an Onex Company), Inroads, Price Waterhouse Coopers, York University, Walmart Canada and most recently Export Development Canada (EDC). Some of his DEI-related accomplishments include Recipient of King Charles III Coronation Medal for service to country and profession and DEI Program Advisory Committee Member, York University. Don’t miss out on this chance to arm yourself with knowledge that’s crucial for your career success! Like, subscribe, and engage with us by sending your comments and questions. Together, we’ll build a foundation of knowledge so that when opportunity knocks, you will be ready to answer with confidence! Join the conversation with today's leaders and share your career questions. Make sure to subscribe, like, and share!  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How important is it to understand how to reframe failure? Do you wonder how to take risks in your career? In a powerful and inspiring discussion with Priya Bates of Inner Strength Communication we delve into how to take risks and process failures so you can turn them into valuable lessons!  Priya opens up about her own career journey, her “lightbulb moment” and shares invaluable lessons learned from risks that she took leaving a successful corporate career to start her own consulting business. Her experience is a testament to continuous learning, the power of taking risks and communication with colleagues and within yourself.  You’ll gain practical strategies that can help you do the same.  Priya Bates is a Toronto-based Internal Communication and Workplace Culture Strategist and President of Inner Strength Communication. She is an author and a sought-after international speaker. Priya is also a powerful force within the International Association of Business Communicators. Don’t miss out on this chance to arm yourself with knowledge that’s crucial for your career success! Like, subscribe, and engage with us by sending your comments and questions. Together, we’ll build a foundation of knowledge so that when opportunity knocks, you will be ready to answer with confidence!  Join the conversation with today's leaders and share your career questions. Make sure to subscribe, like, and share!  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How important is it to understand the language and cadence of your desired career? Do you wonder how AI will impact your career in the future? In an eye-opening discussion with John Weigelt, National Technical Advisor at Microsoft, we delve into how to navigate the rapidly changing job landscape while harnessing the power of AI responsibly and learning to overcome hiccups along the way!John leads Microsoft Canada’s strategic policy and technology initiatives, empowering individuals and organizations across the country to innovate with technology in a way that minimizes potential pitfalls. I've known John for a long time, and this conversation is packed with professional and personal insights that will help you as you strive for success.John opens up about his own career journey, sharing invaluable lessons learned from setbacks and the pivotal "aha" moment that transformed his path when he transitioned from the military to the private sector. His experience is a testament to continuous learning, overcoming disappointments and seizing new opportunities. You’ll gain practical strategies that can help you do the same.John has contributed to many technological efforts that established the foundation for the electronic services we take for granted today and he continues to lead efforts to evolve technology standards and policy. His extensive experience in technology, business and policy provides him with a unique perspective of our technology enabled economy. He has been the Senior Director of Architecture, Standards and Engineering at the Chief Information Officer Branch of the Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat and has worked for the Department of National Defense. John has a Master's degree in Computer and Communications Security from the Royal Military College of Canada.Don’t miss out on this chance to arm yourself with knowledge that’s crucial for your career success! Like, subscribe, and engage with us by sending your comments and questions.Together, we’ll build a foundation of knowledge so that when opportunity knocks, you will be ready to answer with confidence!Join the conversation with today's leaders and share your career questions. Make sure to subscribe, like, and share!  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to Successfully Ambiguous, the proudly Canadian podcast that asks, “When opportunity knocks, will you be ready to answer?” and explores how successful people prepare to leverage the unexpected.Host Christine Brooks-Cappadocia, AVP of York University School of Continuing Studies, has a non-linear professional journey and leads one of the largest Schools in the country dedicated to helping people thrive in the changing world of work. In this podcast, she’ll speak with leaders who achieved success on their own terms to learn what helped them get where they are today.With Generative AI quickly transforming fields we recently thought were impervious to automation, how can anyone really plan a linear career path anymore? Yes, things are changing quickly, but change brings opportunities, and we can prepare to make the most of them. The successful people who are guests on this podcast often describe their career paths as nontraditional or counterintuitive. Unusual career paths may be the new norm.  Whether you are just starting out, planning for a pivot, trying to stay ahead of change, or in the position to create opportunities for others, this bi-weekly podcast will provide great advice, tips, and inspiration! Join the conversation with today's leaders and share your career questions. Make sure to subscribe, like, and share!  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.