Episodios

  • Episode 80 - The ladder myth - why career ‘climbing' is outdated

    Episode 80 - The ladder myth - why career ‘climbing' is outdated
    Mar 12 2025
    Is the traditional career ladder holding you back?


    In this episode of Career Espresso, your host Amanda challenges the outdated "career ladder" metaphor that dominates so many development conversations. If you've ever felt like a failure for not getting a promotion, worried that a lateral move means "giving up," or stressed about "falling behind" after taking time off—this episode reveals why those feelings stem from an obsolete framework that no longer serves us.
    What you'll discover


    ➡️The historical context - Learn why the career ladder metaphor, which emerged in the 1950s, doesn't align with modern career trajectories where the average person holds 12-15 jobs in their lifetime.➡️ The three major problems with ladder thinking and how it creates tunnel vision, unhealthy comparison, and ignores structural barriers—especially for women➡️ Real-world transformation - Hear the compelling story of "Elise," who discovered that her ladder-focused mindset had blinded her to a landscape of possibilities that ultimately led to greater success and fulfillment➡️ Modern alternatives to the ladder - Explore three powerful new metaphors, the Career Lattice, Career Portfolio, and Career Jungle Gym—backed by Harvard Business Review research showing that "zigzag" careers often lead to greater leadership roles


    Including practical takeaways you can implement immediately -


    ✅ A 15-minute exercise to redefine success beyond titles and promotions✅ Strategies to develop a "T-shaped" skill profile that combines depth and breadth✅ Techniques for building a multi-dimensional network that provides more opportunities than vertical connections alone
    Whether you're facing a career transition, feeling stuck in your progression, or simply questioning if there's a better way to approach your growth, this episode provides the framework to break free from outdated thinking and embrace a more expansive, authentic approach to career development.


    Don't forget to take a look at this week's podsheet to support your learning and exploration of the key themes and topics
    Get a full transcript of the episode here
    Love the episode? Help other women discover these career-changing insights by subscribing and leaving a review wherever you listen to your podcasts.
    Got questions or want to share your career transformation story? Reach out to amanda@wearereadytorise.com - we'd love to hear from you!





    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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    11 m
  • Episode 79 - Rethinking Imposter Syndrome - why you are not the problem

    Episode 79 - Rethinking Imposter Syndrome - why you are not the problem
    Mar 5 2025
    Is "Imposter Syndrome" holding you back—or is something else going on?
    In this eye-opening episode of Career Espresso, your host Amanda challenges the conventional wisdom around this pervasive concept and reveals why labeling these feelings as a "syndrome" might be part of the problem, not the solution. Drawing on research and real-world examples, Amanda exposes how the popular understanding of Imposter Syndrome places the burden of workplace inequality on women's shoulders rather than addressing the systemic issues at play. You'll discover-



    ➡️ The surprising origin story of "Imposter Phenomenon" and how it transformed from a research observation into a catch-all term➡️ Compelling data showing how women's "imposter feelings" are often rational responses to real workplace dynamics➡️ Three pervasive myths about Imposter Syndrome debunked with current research➡️ Practical strategies for reframing your experience and building strategic alliances
    This episode is essential listening if you've ever questioned your belonging in a workplace and especially for women who are in male-dominated industries who may have been told their feelings of doubt are just a psychological issue they need to overcome.


    Don't forget to take a look at this week's podsheet to support your learning and exploration of the key themes and topics
    Get a full transcript of the episode here
    Love the episode? Help other women discover these career-changing insights by subscribing and leaving a review wherever you listen to your podcasts.
    Got questions or want to share your career transformation story? Reach out to amanda@wearereadytorise.com - we'd love to hear from you!






    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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    14 m
  • Episode 78 - The power of productive friction - When not getting along gets results

    Episode 78 - The power of productive friction - When not getting along gets results
    Feb 26 2025
    What if your most challenging workplace relationship could be the key to your next breakthrough? In this episode of Career Espresso, host Amanda challenges conventional workplace wisdom by revealing how conflict, when properly managed, can become your secret weapon for innovation and career advancement.
    What You'll Discover
    The Innovation Edge - Harvard Business Review research shows teams with moderate levels of task-related conflict outperform both high-harmony and high-conflict teams by 30% in innovation and decision quality.
    The Avoidance Trap - Why 85% of employees actively avoid workplace conflict—and how this avoidance might be sabotaging your career growth and team outcomes.
    3 game changing strategies -


    ➡️ Reframe conflict as data to mine for insights➡️ Set clear friction parameters that make tension productive➡️ Practice confident curiosity instead of defensiveness
    Actionable Frameworks - Learn how to create your personal "friction map," develop a conflict engagement playbook, and master the P.A.U.S.E. method for transforming tense interactions. Whether you're navigating a difficult colleague relationship, leading a diverse team with conflicting perspectives, or simply want to boost innovation in your career, this episode delivers immediate, practical strategies you can implement today.
    Don't forget to take a look at this week's podsheet to support your learning and exploration of the key themes and topics
    Get a full transcript of the episode here
    Love the episode? Help other women discover these career-changing insights by subscribing and leaving a review wherever you listen to your podcasts.
    Got questions or want to share your career transformation story? Reach out to amanda@wearereadytorise.com - we'd love to hear from you!

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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    15 m
  • Episode 77 - Breaking the likeability trap - Why being trusted beats being liked

    Episode 77 - Breaking the likeability trap - Why being trusted beats being liked
    Feb 19 2025
    In this powerful episode of Career Espresso, host Amanda tackles one of the most pervasive challenges facing women in the workplace: the exhausting pursuit of likeability at the expense of effectiveness. Drawing from research by Harvard Business Review and McKinsey, this episode reveals why focusing on trust rather than likability could be the career game-changer you've been searching for.
    Through real-world examples and compelling data, you'll discover why women leaders who prioritise trust over likeability see 23% higher team engagement and 32% better retention rates. Amanda shares the story of Sam, a brilliant operations manager whose journey from constant people-pleasing to trusted leadership transformed not just her team's performance, but her entire career trajectory.
    In this episode, you'll learn -
    The crucial differences between being liked and being trusted in the workplaceWhy teams with high trust outperform their peers by 76%How to shift from energy-draining approval-seeking to empowered decision-makingPractical strategies for building trust while maintaining professional relationshipsThe "kind clarity" framework for giving direct feedback without compromising relationships
    Don't miss the "coffee shot challenge" at the end of the episode - a practical exercise to help you begin implementing these insights immediately in your workplace.
    Join all the career-focused women who tune in weekly to Career Espresso for evidence-based strategies and authentic advice on navigating today's workplace challenges. New episodes release every week wherever you get your podcasts.


    Don't forget to take a look at this week's podsheet to support your learning and exploration of the key themes and topics
    Get a full transcript of the episode here
    Love the episode? Help other women discover these career-changing insights by subscribing and leaving a review wherever you listen to your podcasts.
    Got questions or want to share your career transformation story? Reach out to amanda@wearereadytorise.com - we'd love to hear from you!



    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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    13 m
  • Episode 76 - Quiet power: Leading without being the loudest voice

    Episode 76 - Quiet power: Leading without being the loudest voice
    Feb 12 2025
    Is the loudest voice in the room always the most influential? In this eye-opening episode of Career Espresso, host Amanda challenges conventional leadership wisdom by exploring the hidden strength of quiet leadership and why it might be your untapped secret to career success.
    Backed by research from Harvard Business Review showing that introverted leaders often outperform their extroverted counterparts, this episode reveals why quieter leadership styles are gaining traction in today's workplace. Did you know that 40% of C-suite executives identify as introverts? Or that teams led by quieter leaders report 23% higher job satisfaction?
    Through compelling real-world examples, including the transformative story of Priya's journey from overlooked project manager to director of product, Amanda unpacks three powerful elements of quiet leadership:
    ✅ The Power of Presence: Learn practical techniques like the three-second rule and presence anchors that command attention without demanding it✅ Strategic Communication: Discover how to make your voice heard through thoughtful written communication and meaningful one-on-one connections✅ Connection Through Observation: Master the art of reading team dynamics and spotting potential issues before they surface
    Whether you're an introvert looking to amplify your impact or an extrovert seeking to diversify your leadership toolkit, this episode challenges traditional leadership paradigms and offers a fresh perspective on what it means to be influential in today's workplace. Tune in to unlock the power of quiet leadership and transform how you show up in your career. Your next leadership breakthrough might just lie in the power of pause, not the volume of your voice.


    Don't miss the weekly "Coffee Shot Challenge" that will help you take immediate action on your career goals.
    Don't forget to take a look at this week's podsheet to support your learning and exploration of the key themes and topics
    Get a full transcript of the episode here
    Love the episode? Help other women discover these career-changing insights by subscribing and leaving a review wherever you listen to your podcasts.
    Got questions or want to share your career transformation story? Reach out to amanda@wearereadytorise.com - we'd love to hear from you!



    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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    16 m
  • Episode 75 -The myth of perfect timing in your career

    Episode 75 -The myth of perfect timing in your career
    Feb 5 2025
    Are you putting your career dreams on hold until the "perfect moment" arrives? In this eye-opening episode of Career Espresso, host Amanda tackles the common belief that keeps talented professionals, especially women, stuck in their careers – the myth of perfect timing.


    Backed by fascinating research from the Harvard Business Review, this episode reveals why waiting for the perfect moment might be the very thing holding you back. Through compelling statistics and real-world examples, you'll discover how professionals who take action despite imperfect circumstances are 3.4 times more likely to achieve their career goals.
    What you'll learn -
    Why feeling only 60-70% ready is actually the sweet spot for career movesHow successful career transitions often happen through small, strategic stepsFour common timing myths that keep talented professionals stuckPractical strategies to make progress despite imperfect circumstancesA powerful reframing technique to turn "waiting for perfect timing" into "creating strategic timing"
    Featured in this episode is an inspiring story of a marketing director and mother of two who transformed her career by stopping waiting and taking action. Her journey from perpetual postponement to landing her dream role in tech while achieving better work-life balance demonstrates what's possible when you move beyond the perfect timing myth.
    Don't miss the weekly "Coffee Shot Challenge" that will help you take immediate action on your career goals.
    Don't forget to take a look at this week's podsheet to support your learning and exploration of the key themes and topics
    Get a full transcript of the episode here
    Love the episode? Help other women discover these career-changing insights by subscribing and leaving a review wherever you listen to your podcasts.
    Got questions or want to share your career transformation story? Reach out to amanda@wearereadytorise.com - we'd love to hear from you!

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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    9 m
  • Episode 74 - Breaking the Rules of Career 'Shoulds'

    Episode 74 - Breaking the Rules of Career 'Shoulds'
    Jan 29 2025
    Are you letting "career shoulds" dictate your professional journey? In this eye-opening episode of Career Espresso, Amanda challenges the invisible rules that may be preventing you from making bold career moves, especially if you're a woman in leadership.
    Drawing on compelling research, including a 2023 Harvard Business Review study, Amanda reveals why 67% of professionals make career decisions based on external expectations rather than personal values. Through real-world examples and expert analysis, she breaks down how these hidden pressures particularly impact women in leadership positions.
    What You'll Learn -
    The three primary sources of career "shoulds" that influence your decision-makingA powerful case study of "Sarah," who broke free from traditional career paths and increased her income by 40%The innovative REAL framework for evaluating career decisions on your own termsFive common career "shoulds" that specifically impact women leadersPractical strategies for auditing and challenging career expectations
    Learn Amanda's exclusive REAL framework for navigating complex career decisions -
    💡Recognition: Identifying external expectations💡 Examination: Understanding the validity of career "rules"💡 Alignment: Evaluating personal values💡Liberation: Creating space for authentic choices
    Whether you're considering a bold career move or simply feeling the weight of professional expectations, this episode provides actionable insights and frameworks to help you make decisions that align with your true career aspirations.
    Don't miss the weekly coffee shot challenge that will help you immediately apply these insights to your own career journey. Tune in to discover how questioning career "shoulds" might lead to your next breakthrough moment.

    Don't forget to take a look at this week's podsheet to support your learning and exploration of the key themes and topics
    Get a full transcript of the episode here
    Love the episode? Help other women discover these career-changing insights by subscribing and leaving a review wherever you listen to your podcasts.
    Got questions or want to share your career transformation story? Reach out to amanda@wearereadytorise.com - we'd love to hear from you!



    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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    11 m
  • Episode 73 - The problem with 'going all in' on career change

    Episode 73 - The problem with 'going all in' on career change
    Jan 22 2025
    Is your "go big or go home" mindset actually holding you back from making meaningful career progress? In this eye-opening episode of Career Espresso, Amanda tackles the common but often overlooked trap of all-or-nothing thinking in career development, especially among high-achieving women.
    Drawing from extensive coaching experience and backed by research from Harvard Business Review, Amanda reveals why attempting dramatic career transformations often backfires – and what to try instead. You'll discover why successful career transitions typically involve 15-20 smaller pivots rather than one dramatic leap, and how embracing this approach can triple your chances of success.
    Through compelling real-world examples, including the story of Alex, a technical expert struggling with leadership transition, Amanda breaks down -
    • Why all-or-nothing thinking reduces your chances of success by 60%• The three main reasons we fall into this career trap• Practical strategies for breaking free from perfectionist paralysis• How to use the "grey zone principles" to make sustainable career progress• The power of treating career moves as experiments rather than absolute commitments
    Plus, you'll learn about the game-changing "success stacking" technique that's helping professionals make meaningful career transitions without the pressure of perfect execution.
    Whether you're contemplating a career pivot, seeking a promotion, or simply feeling stuck in your professional growth, this episode offers actionable insights to help you move forward with confidence. Amanda closes with a practical challenge that you can implement immediately to start breaking free from all-or-nothing thinking.


    Don't forget to take a look at this week's podsheet to support your learning and exploration of the key themes and topics
    Get a full transcript of the episode here
    Love the episode? Help other women discover these career-changing insights by subscribing and leaving a review wherever you listen to your podcasts.
    Got questions or want to share your career transformation story? Reach out to amanda@wearereadytorise.com - we'd love to hear from you!



    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
    Más Menos
    14 m