The Lonely Office

Nowadays, resumes must beat applicant tracking systems and "wow" hiring managers. From TikTok handles to colorful redesigns to mindfulness sections, Gen Z is trying everything to get a return phone call. What are resumes even good for anymore? And should you tailor yours to the machines or humans? We chat with comedian Azhar Usman about the new generation of resume builders. Special Guest: Azhar Usman https://azhar.com/ Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ Leah Ova https://www.tiktok.com/@leahova Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

In this episode of The Lonely Office, we dive into the disconnect between economic data and the job seeker’s reality, exploring why many still feel gaslit despite reports of a "booming economy." Joined by economist Guy Berger, we break down the real challenges of the job market, highlighting the frustration of job seekers navigating slow hiring and overstated job openings in today’s labor landscape. Special Guest: Dr. Guy Berger, Director of Economic Research @ Burning Glass Institute https://www.linkedin.com/in/guyberger Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/

With more CEOs going on record about their return to office mandates, it has us wondering: was the golden promise of working from home too good to be true? On this episode, we discuss the hidden market players who want you back in office and how companies like JM Smuckers are rolling out their hybrid work policy. (Re-air) Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ https://www.aaroncalafato.com/ Leah Ova https://www.tiktok.com/@leahova

Workers are taking less and less PTO, yet working more and more when they do. This week, Malcolm’s ‘staycation’ turns into an anxiety-filled week of self-reflection that leads to him reconsidering his career. Why aren’t we using our full PTO allowance? Are we at fault, or is it the company? And is our mental health deteriorating as a result? Comedian Chanel Ali joins us to talk about vacation. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ https://www.aaroncalafato.com/ Leah Ova https://www.tiktok.com/@leahova Special Guest: Chanel Ali https://www.chanelali.com/ Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

Could it be that choosing degrees in the humanities is actually a smart, tactical move for the future? As tech job markets tighten, we explore how skills rooted in creativity and human insight are becoming more valuable—and share key strategies for standing out in this evolving landscape. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ https://www.aaroncalafato.com/

Job hopping can be great for your wallet, but is it detrimental to your career? This week, Ferris’ job hopping led to pay bumps and new positions until layoffs stopped him in his tracks. Is it the key to making more money? Or does job loyalty pay off in the long run? Comedian Azhar Usman joins us to talk about the new social contract between workers and companies. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ https://www.aaroncalafato.com/ Leah Ova https://www.tiktok.com/@leahova Special Guest: Azhar Usman https://azhar.com/ Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

In this reaction pod of TLO, we dive back into the controversial world of workplace surveillance with special guest Cody Rogers, Chief Product Officer at Hubstaff. Are these tools about transparency and efficiency, or are they enabling a culture of micromanagement? Join us as we explore the fine line between monitoring and trust. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ https://www.aaroncalafato.com/ Leah Ova https://www.tiktok.com/@leahova Guest: Cody Rogers, Chief Product Officer at Hubstaff

On today's TLO Reaction Pod, Matt & Aaron dive into the stark realities of job hunting in an unpredictable economy—where even the most prepared knowledge workers might be forced to dip into their 401(k)s just to stay afloat. With layoffs climbing and job openings dwindling, the remote worker could be facing the same fate as the Rust Belt worker of the past.  Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ https://www.aaroncalafato.com/

Starting your own business is something many dream about, but few actually do. This week, ‘Emma’ is torn between taking a job promotion or pursuing her passion. Is there ever a right time to make the leap? Do you really have to say ‘goodbye’ to your social life? We take you through the hard truths of forming that first LLC. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ https://www.aaroncalafato.com/ Leah Ova https://www.tiktok.com/@leahova Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Opening Story Performed by: Aaron Calafato Adapted by: Matt Sunbulli & Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

The latest government job report issued a massive revision on the number of jobs that were actually in the market, throwing a wrench into the narrative of the "booming market" earlier this year.. We break down how these inflated job numbers, especially in the professional services sector— tech, finance, consulting—misled workers and painted a false picture of opportunity. Joining us this week is Bob Coursey, an employment lawyer, who sheds light on the rise of fake job postings and what it could mean for legal and government crackdowns on this growing issue. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ https://www.aaroncalafato.com/ Guest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobcoursey/ Audio Production: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz

AI is eating our skills and taking away our remote jobs. From the operating room to the cubicle, it appears that our trusty sidekicks may be planning a takeover.  How is this different from the software revolution? And which jobs are most at risk? Matt Beane, author of The Skill Code, joins us this week to take on the machines. Special Guest: Matt Beane Learn more about Matt's book: The Skill Code: How to Save Human Ability in an Age of Intelligent Machines https://www.mattbeane.com/ https://www.ted.com/talks/matt_beane_how_do_we_learn_to_work_with_intelligent_machines Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ https://www.aaroncalafato.com/ Leah Ova https://www.tiktok.com/@leahova Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Opening Story Performed by: Aaron Calafato Adapted by: Matt Sunbulli & Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

Career or kids? That’s the question facing many young adults like Kennedy who are in the middle of job transitions. Can you be a great parent and have a successful career? And what's behind the rise of 'childless cat owners'? We get real with comedian and parent Azhar Usman. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ https://www.aaroncalafato.com/ Leah Ova https://www.tiktok.com/@leahova Special Guest: Azhar Usman https://azhar.com/ Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Opening Story Performed by: Aaron Calafato Adapted by: Matt Sunbulli & Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

Unfortunately for job seekers, fake job posts have flooded career sites. This week, a fake job post aimed at replacing ‘Serenity’ led her to work double and hire her little sister. Why do companies do it? And how do you spot one? Corporate recruiter Karen Young joins us to dish the truth on fake job posts. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ https://www.aaroncalafato.com/ Leah Ova https://www.tiktok.com/@leahova Special Guest: Karen Young https://www.linkedin.com/in/kareneyoung/ Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Opening Story Performed by: Aaron Calafato Adapted by: Matt Sunbulli & Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

The shift to remote work has led companies to invest in surveillance software in attempt to increase worker productivity. Is it a breach of privacy? Why do companies resort to it? And should you buy a mouse jiggler from TikTok? This week, we cover it all with comedian Chanel Ali. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ https://www.aaroncalafato.com/ Leah Ova https://www.tiktok.com/@leahova Special Guest: Chanel Ali https://www.chanelali.com/ Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

Do you ever put your morals on pause for a job? How have workers’ considerations of 'evil' companies evolved with the rise of frameworks like ESG? From the excesses of Wall Street companies in the 90s to Tech companies pillaging our privacy for gold in the 2000s—in this episode, we're debating the age-old battle of morals vs. money. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ https://www.aaroncalafato.com/ Leah Ova https://www.tiktok.com/@leahova Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

TLO cohosts dive into the largest UBI study ever conducted, backed by OpenAI's Sam Altman, exploring its potential as a disaster relief fund for those displaced by AI. The hosts also tackle the evolving workplace dynamics, discussing the rise of 'hushed hybrids,' where employees navigate the balance between office mandates and remote work. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ https://www.aaroncalafato.com/ Leah Ova https://www.tiktok.com/@leahova Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

You did it. You landed your dream job. When all of a sudden, the boss who hired you does a complete 180. This week, ‘Kenya’s’ attentive, supportive boss from her interview has turned into a toxic, micromanaging nightmare.  What do you do when reality is much, much worse than the expectation? And how do you sniff out a ‘bad boss’ in the interview process? Comedian Chanel Ali joins us to talk about surviving bad bosses. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ https://www.aaroncalafato.com/ Leah Ova https://www.tiktok.com/@leahova Special Guest: Chanel Ali https://www.chanelali.com/ Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

In the wake of last week's shocking assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump and the ensuing chaos, the nation is grappling with unprecedented uncertainty. How do employees and employers cope with such turmoil? Join the TLO crew as we explore the impact on the workplace and discuss strategies for finding stability and productivity in these challenging times.  Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ https://www.aaroncalafato.com/ Leah Ova https://www.tiktok.com/@leahova

Sometimes you’ve got a game-changing idea, but your boss says no. This week, ‘Dylan’ ignored direction from his boss and now has the CEO’s attention.  Should you always listen to your boss? Is it worth going over their head? We’ve got advice for everyone whose boss is holding them back. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ https://www.aaroncalafato.com/ Leah Ova https://www.tiktok.com/@leahova Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

Scrolling through preachy lectures on LinkedIn can leave us all squirming in our seats. This week, a wholesome moment between ‘David’ and his family quickly turns into a cringey, performative post.  What’s spurring this invasion of cringe on professional networking sites? And who is liking these posts? We dive into the answers on this week’s episode. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ Leah Ova https://www.tiktok.com/@leahova Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli