In today's episode of the Career Equation Podcast, host Erica Sosna sat down with Charles Hillman. He is a junior doctor working in A&E focusing on sports and rehabilitative medicine. Amid recent NHS strikes, Charlie provides a rare glimpse into emergency medicine today. He illuminates the realities of life on the medical frontlines. As he balances the pressures of the NHS with his aspirations in sports medicine, Charlie's experiences offer valuable insights into the evolving landscape of healthcare. His perspective reveals both the challenges and potential solutions within the healthcare system.

Charlie's journey into medicine began with a passion for science. His initial inspiration was shows like CSI. But, he realized the reality of medical practice. It was far different from its portrayal on television. He explains, "In school, you're, no matter how much work experience you do, you don't know what it's about. Um, you know, you see people with injuries and with illnesses. And you read books that describe what it's about, but it's not, it's nothing like what it is."

In this episode of the Career Equation Podcast, host Erica Sosna sits down with Gilly Smith, a seasoned journalist, food writer, and podcasting pioneer. Gilly's illustrious career spans television, radio, and print, with a particular focus on the politics and culture of food. Her experience includes working on programs about malnutrition. It focuses on the impact of markets on food security in countries like the Philippines and Guatemala. Erica points out that Gilly's career is fueled by passion and curiosity, which is a key theme in their conversation

Gilly's journey into journalism begins with a deep-seated desire to make an impact and do something different every day. "I wanted to make a change in the world and I wanted to do something different every day," she recalls. This drive led her to work for Bob Geldof on Sport Aid. This role cemented her commitment to using storytelling as a tool for change. Her father, a storyteller and PR person for the army, also significantly shapes her narrative skills. "I was surrounded by that kind of capturing and getting people to unpack," she says.

In this episode, Gilly shares her insights on the importance of storytelling in journalism. She discusses the challenges of a career change and the power of personal narrative. She also discusses her current career dilemma on how to transition her extensive expertise into a consulting career. 

Discover how to find your dream career path with The Career Equation Podcast. Learn how to achieve career success and work-life balance.

In the inaugural episode of The Career Equation Podcast, host Erica Sosna sits down with Zoë Schöfield. They introduce a groundbreaking approach to career navigation. Their approach aims to revolutionise how people think about career paths. With over 20 years of experience as a career coach, Erica and Zoë help people find their dream jobs. They focus on guiding individuals toward fulfilling careers. Their mission also includes helping others achieve a healthy work-life balance.

Erica Sosna, the Career Equation creator, shares her journey. She says, "I was someone who struggled to find their niche. I knew I was a useful person. I got good grades. I wanted to find my place in space, but finding the place where my unique skillset might work took some time." This experience led her to develop the career equation method. It has helped thousands of professionals worldwide make informed career choices.

Zoë Schöfield, a multi-passionate career consultant and artist, adds her expertise to the mix. She emphasises the podcast's goal. She says, "The purpose of this pod is to share the career equation with people. So that you can use it to help you solve your career conundrums, find out where your thriving zone is and make good sound decisions about those future career choices."

You’re about to uncover the transformative formula for organizational and career success! Join hosts Erica Sosna and Zoë Schofield on the ”Career Equation” podcast, brought to you by careermatters.today. Trusted by firms like Amazon and AXA, their unique Career Equation revolutionizes your approach to professional growth and fulfillment, offering invaluable career advice along the way. Discover how the Career Equation helps individuals navigate their career paths with precision and clarity, providing actionable tips and career advice in each episode. For executives, gain access to quick leadership tips and strategies to get the most out of your team, master employee retention, and foster a productive team environment. Each episode is tailored to navigate the complexities of today’s workplace and elevate your career trajectory.

In a recent podcast episode, Zoë Schofield sat down with Annelies Kleyweg. She is the owner and "gites executive officer" of Le Moulin de Clapier. It is a stunning mansion in the beautiful Dordogne area of France. Annelies decided to pursue her dream career. She left her corporate management and leadership roles. She pursued her dream of running a hospitality business. Now, she’s focused on this new venture in the French countryside.

Annelies's journey is a testament to the power of following one's passion and finding the right career equation. Her story begins with a holiday in Canada, where she and her husband stayed at a gite and started fantasising about running their own. This sparked a desire for change, leading them to take a leap of faith during the COVID-19 pandemic. Annelies shares, "We said, if we don't do it now, we will never do it. And, so, we just packed up, sold our house, and went. Yeah, it's really strange, and everybody said we were crazy, but we said, well, you can't fail, right? If you don't make it, it's not a failure. At least we tried."

In the latest episode of the Career Equation Podcast, we sit down with Dominic Grace, a renowned figure in the real estate industry. With over 37 years at Savills, Dominic has recently embarked on a new journey. He has transitioned into property management consulting. This episode explores Dominic's experiences. It offers valuable insights into career change, work-life balance, and personal branding.

Is real estate a good career? Dominic sheds light on this by reflecting on his long and successful tenure at Savills. "I had a pretty long career at Savills, 37 years there," he recalls. During this time, he saw the company's growth from a small player to a global leader in the real estate industry. Yet, even with such a fulfilling career, Dominic felt a growing desire to explore new horizons. "I found myself tantalized by more and more things that were out of the guide rails of that role," he explains.

This led Dominic to a pivotal moment of self-reflection and a significant career change. He credits a transformative session with Erica for helping him peel off several layers of the onion and gaining clarity on his next steps. "You were brilliant," he tells Erica. "It certainly helped me decide what to do next and end up where I am today."

In the latest episode of The Career Equation podcast, host Erica Sosna sits down with Sarah Taylor Phillips. She is a seasoned career coach and recruitment consultant. Sarah's journey from a thriving corporate career to becoming a top career advisor is both inspiring and educational. With 20 years in talent acquisition, Sarah has seen the job market change firsthand.

"I realised that my true passion lay in helping others navigate their career paths," Sarah reflects. "The satisfaction of seeing someone transition into a role they love is unparalleled." Sarah transitioned from corporate recruiter to career coach to make a direct impact on people's lives. "In recruitment, I was matching candidates to jobs. As a career coach, I'm helping people align their entire lives with their professional aspirations," she explains.

Sarah's expertise in guiding midlife career changes has become relevant in today's dynamic job market. Her approach is called the "Career Voyage." It emphasises the importance of self-reflection and strategic planning in career development.

In a recent episode of the Career Equation Podcast, hosts Erica Sosna and Zoë Schofield explore the concept of career philosophy. They discuss its importance in today's ever-changing work landscape. They share their insights on various episodes in the podcast. They provide new insights into how people and organisations can rethink career planning. Their approach focuses on the evolving demands of the 21st century.

Erica Sosna is the creator of the Career Equation. She emphasises the core philosophy behind their approach. "A career is a series of choices where we explore how to align my gifts with how I spend my time and make money", she says. This statement sets the stage for rethinking traditional career paths. It challenges conventional ideas and promotes a more flexible approach. The focus is on personalising career development to meet individual needs.

The hosts share stories from various professionals. They talk about Annalise, who made a significant career change. She shifted from corporate life to entrepreneurship in France. They also discuss the career tangent of Charlie, a doctor who knew his calling from an early age. These real-life examples illustrate the diverse ways individuals navigate their career journeys. They highlight how their choices align with their values and aspirations.

In today's episode of the Career Equation, we sit down with Jeffrey Wotherspoon. He is an executive and leadership coach. Known for his exceptional work in diversity, inclusion, and personal development, Jeffrey has turned his superpower into a tool for creating safe learning environments. He has accreditations from the International Coaching Federation. Jeffrey brings a wealth of experience to the table. Jeffery’s coaching audience spans from young men in prison to high-level executives. He aims to help individuals succeed and reach their full potential. He seeks to foster empathy, understanding, and collaboration in the workplace.

“The work I do is always bespoke—tailored to the client’s needs,” Jeffrey explains. Jeffrey helps clients improve their leadership skills and navigate difficult conversations through personalised coaching. He helps them to identify their strengths and passions. He adds, “I create a space for learning, understanding, and empathy. Leveraging the diversity in the room helps people work together better.”

Jeffrey shares how the career equation has transformed his approach to coaching. He explains that the model helps individuals align their personal goals with their professional ones. It also assists organisations in achieving similar alignment.

On the latest episode of The Career Equation Podcast, we sit down with Holly Smith. She is a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Partner at Personio. We explore the critical role of employee engagement, HR strategies, and culture in the modern workplace. Holly has a Employee background in leading DEI initiatives. She has a deep passion for driving inclusion within organizations. Holly offers a distinctive view on the role of HR as a strategic partner in meeting business objectives. This is especially relevant for tech companies.

“HR teams can be strategic partners to departments,” Holly explains. She highlights her experience at Personio as an HR tech solution. She automates tasks for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Holly has over three years of experience at Personio. She collaborates with leaders to align employee engagement and culture with business goals. Her focus is on enhancing workplace satisfaction while meeting organizational objectives. "It’s easy for HR to be viewed as just supporting internal customers, but we can also help the business achieve its wider goals,” she adds.

Holly shares not only her professional journey but also how her personal experiences. Such as how becoming a new parent has shaped her approach in the workplace. Her insights are invaluable for anyone looking to improve employee engagement.

Join host Erica on The Career Equation podcast as she delves into the art of creating a fulfilling career with Susan Emmett, Social Value Director at Stantec. Susan’s journey from journalism to business development offers unique insights into embedding social value into business strategies. Her career path highlights the importance of aligning professional ambitions with personal values, providing invaluable lessons for those seeking career satisfaction.

In this episode, Susan elucidates the concept of social value, illustrating its shift from a corporate formality to a vital business strategy influenced by public expectations and legislative frameworks like the Social Value Act of 2012. She stresses that genuine success now depends on a company’s societal and environmental impact, rather than just financial performance.

At the core of Susan’s philosophy are leadership and communication, as she champions clear storytelling to highlight Stantec’s contributions to social value. She shares her vision of making social impact an integral part of "business as usual," encouraging leaders to align corporate objectives with broader societal goals.

Tune in to discover how Susan Emmett’s transformative approach can help you design a career that not only achieves professional aspirations but also makes a positive contribution to the world. This episode is essential listening for anyone looking to integrate sustainability into their career path and lead with purpose.

Alex Seftel's journey in journalism is a testament to the power of seizing opportunities and embracing career growth. Learn about the Career Equation and how it can transform your professional path!

In today's episode of the Career Equation, we sat with Alex, a versatile journalist and BBC podcast producer. From student media to BBC podcasts, Alex's career shows curiosity, adaptability, and a willingness to step out of his comfort zone. He shares, "I wanted to get into sports because I've been a sports fan, although that hasn't been my upbringing. My parents aren't interested in sport that much." His interest in sports journalism came from wanting a more relaxed setting than political reporting. "Sport was a little bit more relaxed than politics. You didn't have to think about balancing between two sides, less stressful, you can say more what you want," Alex explains.

His journey began in earnest during his university years when he took the plunge into student media. Despite initial hesitations, Alex found a welcoming community that shared his interests. He recalls, "When I got into it people were very friendly. We had the same interests in the case of sport, for example." This experience helped him to find passion. It helped him to build skills in commentating, writing, and TV production.

For many, a career spanning 35 years in global finance might seem like the pinnacle of stability and success. Paul Mullins is an exception to this. He is a former leader at HSBC. He sought a new challenge that prompted an unexpected career shift. He transitioned from corporate leadership to consultancy. In this episode of The Career Equation Podcast, Paul reflects on his leadership journey. He shares valuable insights into navigating the challenges of a major career change. He shares about transitioning into consultancy and mastering the art of communication.

"Moving from a big corporate to a consultancy role was exciting and a bit challenging," Paul says. He transitioned from managing large teams at HSBC to helping fintech startups grow. This shift allowed him to use his experience in a new way. After managing global projects for years, Paul now focuses on smaller businesses. He aims to share his expertise with these companies to help them enter new markets. His goal is to support sustainable growth for these businesses.

The podcast further explores the evolving demands of leadership. Paul discusses the importance of personal development. He explains how key skills like communication can shape successful career transitions.

Discover how the principles of improvisation can transform businesses and careers in this exciting episode of The Career Equation Podcast! Erica Sosna sits down with Heather Urquhart, an award-winning professional improviser and founder of And Also Improv, to explore the untapped potential of creativity and adaptability in the corporate world.

Learn how improvisation techniques like “listening, saying yes, and committing” can revolutionise communication, foster innovation, and enhance team collaboration. Heather shares her journey of balancing parenthood with running a creative business, while also navigating her career conundrum of transitioning from the stage to becoming a credible entrepreneur in corporate settings.

Erica introduces her Career Equation framework, a powerful tool for overcoming career challenges by aligning personal values, strengths, and aspirations. One key takeaway is Erica’s coaching insight, which helped Heather craft a business narrative that balances her authenticity and creative expertise with her entrepreneurial goals.

This episode offers invaluable insights for HR professionals, coaches, and business leaders looking to foster adaptability, creativity, and collaboration in their teams. Tune in to unlock strategies for turning challenges into opportunities and explore how creativity can be a competitive edge in today’s dynamic workplaces.

Whether you’re seeking career growth, innovative team-building techniques, or tools for organisational success, this episode has something for everyone. Listen now and start solving your career equation with clarity, creativity, and confidence!

Episode Overview: Do you feel like you’re chasing someone else’s version of success? It’s time to hit pause and ask the question that matters most—what does success mean to YOU?

In this compelling episode of The Career Equation Podcast, Erica Sosna dives deep into the truth about career success. She unpacks how societal pressures, family expectations, and workplace norms influence our goals, often without us realising it. With 21 years of experience as a career coach, Erica shares practical tools and thought-provoking insights to help you redefine success on your own terms.

 

✨ Here’s what you’ll gain:

• Break Free from the Noise: Erica helps you identify where your career goals may have been shaped by external influences—from social media spotlight reels to family opinions—and how to take back control of your narrative.
• The 4 Pillars of Career Success: Discover Erica’s proven framework for building a thriving career. Get clear on the skills you want to grow, the passions you want to pursue, the impact you want to make, and the environment where you’ll thrive.
• The Power of Experiences: Rethink career metrics—why aiming for growth, joy, and meaningful experiences is far more fulfilling than chasing pay raises and job titles.
• Guided Career Visualisation Exercise: Erica takes you through a calming and insightful visualisation exercise to imagine your ideal career, meet your “career guide,” and uncover the next steps you need to take to align your work with your values.
• Think Beyond Status: Learn how to make decisions that truly reflect who you are, what energises you, and where you want to leave your mark.

 

🎧 Whether you're feeling stuck, tired of the traditional career grind, or just craving inspiration to move forward, this episode is for you. Erica’s mix of practical advice, heartfelt stories, and reflective tools will empower you to create a career you love—no cookie-cutter paths required.

 

Why listen now? Because your career isn't about fitting into someone else's mold—it's about creating a life that feels deeply satisfying and meaningful. You spend 80,000 hours at work; it’s worth investing time into making sure those hours align with the real YOU. Imagine waking up every day feeling energized, knowing your work reflects your values and aspirations. That’s the kind of success that’s waiting for you.

 

#TakeChargeOfYourCareer #DefineSuccessYourWay #CareerClarity #CareerGrowth #WorkYourWay #TheCareerEquation

Get ready to be whisked away on an unforgettable career adventure! On this episode of The Career Equation Podcast, Erica Sosna sits down with the one and only Paul Alborough—better known to his devoted fans as Professor Elemental. From navigating the world of special needs education to donning a pith helmet and rapping about tea, Paul’s career is anything but ordinary.

What’s Inside This Episode

• From Teacher to Creator: Discover how Paul transitioned from teaching teenagers with special needs to carving out a niche as a steampunk-inspired chap-hop artist.
• Viral Success & Creativity: Paul shares the backstory of his viral hit "Cup of Brown Joy," his take on the DNA of creativity, and what it’s like to create in a genre that thrives on imagination and humor.
• The Joy of Community: With a commitment to inclusivity, Paul speaks about building a vibrant, quirky fanbase and making music that resonates deeply with nerdy, creative, and marginalized communities.
• Educational Roots: Hear how his background in education influences his performance workshops, where audiences young and old are invited to write and perform their own quirky rap lyrics.
• Resilience Through Reinvention: Paul reflects on overcoming setbacks, cultivating community, and staying nimble in the face of change to keep his creative career thriving over the years.

True Takeaways

• The Blending of Roles: Paul juggles educator, entertainer, and innovator seamlessly—proving that even the quirkiest career paths can transform into lifelong pursuits.
• The Power of Humor & Authenticity: Through his entertaining alter-ego, Paul brings lightness, joy, and authentic connection to everyone he meets—whether on stage or off.
• Building Creative Confidence: Paul shares how to thrive (even if you stumble along the way) by failing fast and leaning into creative collaboration.

A Bit About Paul

Paul Alborough, aka Professor Elemental, is a unique performer who combines imaginative steampunk storytelling with rap and comedy. Hailing from Brighton, Paul is not only known for his absurdly clever rhymes and theatrical stage presence but also for his dedication to fostering inclusivity and youth development through hip-hop workshops. A self-proclaimed "village idiot," he’s brought laughter, life lessons, and sheer eccentricity to countless audiences worldwide.

Don’t Miss This!

If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to leave a traditional career path behind for a life filled with creativity and connection, this episode is for you. Tune in for a delightful concoction of humor, wisdom, and stories you truly don’t want to miss.

 

➡️ Listen now and join the whimsical world of Professor Elemental!

Why do career conversations matter to businesses and individuals—and how can they lead to tangible results? On this episode of The Career Equation, Erica Sosna and Zoë Schofield team up to explore the business case for career conversations. They discuss how using the Career Equation framework creates a win-win scenario for organisations looking to retain top talent and for individuals seeking clarity and growth in their careers. From reducing attrition to building a personalised approach to skills development, Erica and Zoë share how businesses like Savills, Microsoft, and Capital One have benefited from embedding structured career conversations into their people strategies. Learn how career dialogue fosters retention, boosts performance, and supports powerful decision-making for careers at every level in your organisation.

How can young people have a real say in shaping the future they'll live in? Join Erica Sosna and her guest Kian Bakhtiari, founder of The People, a Gen-Z-focused consultancy, on The Career Equation, as they explore this vital question. Kian’s mission is to amplify young voices through creativity and collaboration, helping businesses and the next generation work together for meaningful change.

Kian shares his inspiring personal story of adapting to new environments, the challenges young people face in decision-making and the workplace, and the potential of Youth Advisory Boards to revolutionise how businesses work. Through the Career Equation framework, Erica helps Kian frame his vision, purpose, and impact on the next generation. With practical advice and insightful examples, this episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about empowering young changemakers.

On this episode of The Career Equation Podcast, Erica Sosna sits down with Melanie Rickey, Style Director at Good Housekeeping, and founder of the Enoughness Movement and podcast. Melanie shares her remarkable career story, from breaking barriers in the fashion industry to creating a movement centred on living with "enoughness." She offers a fresh perspective on redefining success, finding balance, and reclaiming agency in a world driven by excess.

 

Melanie reflects on her career highs, including mentoring emerging fashion talent and shaping influential stories in prominent publications like The Sunday Times Style. She also opens up about overcoming personal challenges, including navigating addiction recovery and her ADHD diagnosis, and outlines her mission to embed "enoughness" into cultural discourse. This candid and thought-provoking conversation provides valuable insights for anyone looking to step back, reflect, and shift their priorities towards meaningful work and life.

Key Topics Explored

• The Concept of Enoughness Melanie introduces the philosophy behind the Enoughness Movement, explaining why knowing what is "just enough" can lead to greater happiness, less consumption, and a more balanced life. She contrasts cultural attitudes in the UK with those in countries like Sweden and Bhutan, where the idea of “enough” is deeply ingrained in society.
• Overcoming Personal Challenges to Find Fulfilment Melanie discusses her battle with addiction, her ADHD diagnosis, and how these experiences deepened her understanding of what truly mattered. She shares how these moments of struggle led to the founding of the Enoughness Movement as a way to inspire others to step away from the constant chase for "more” and live life intentionally.
• The Fashion Industry’s Changing Landscape Drawing on her extensive experience as a fashion director, Melanie analyses the evolution of the industry—from exclusive runways to fashion’s expansion as entertainment. She also highlights her efforts mentoring emerging talents through initiatives like British Fashion Council’s "New Gen" and her own project, "Future British."
• Redefining Career Success Using the Career Equation framework, Erica and Melanie explore how Melanie’s career is evolving. They discuss the importance of combining passion with strategy, understanding personal strengths, and creating environments that suit her unique skills and vision. Melanie reflects on the transition from initiating projects to sustaining them, a challenge she’s tackling with renewed focus on team-building and structured planning.
• Impact and Cultural Shifts Melanie offers a hopeful vision for how the Enoughness concept can influence culture, teaching people to consume mindfully, improve self-worth, and create a virtuous cycle of conscious living. Her ultimate aim? To make "enoughness" a celebrated and aspirational concept woven into the fabric of daily life.

Memorable Quotes from Melanie Rickey

• “When you know what is enough, you stop chasing things that don’t add value—and that’s where freedom lies.”
• “I’ve always been at the start of people’s journeys, helping them find their footing in tough industries like fashion—that’s where I know I can make the most impact.”
• “Enoughness isn’t about giving up; it’s about recognising what truly nourishes your life and letting go of the things that don’t.”

Takeaways for Listeners

1. Chasing ‘More’ Doesn’t Equal Happiness – Melanie challenges the idea that success is defined by constant achievement and offers a new paradigm for fulfilment.
2. Personal Growth Fuels Professional Reinvention – Facing challenges head-on can inspire not only new directions in your career but also a movement others can rally around.
3. Stepping Into Sustainability – Learn how the Enoughness Movement advocates for balance, intentionality, and mindful consumption, benefiting both individuals and the planet.

How to Connect with Melanie Rickey

Discover more about the Enoughness Movement on The Enoughness Podcast and follow Melanie on LinkedIn. For updates on her speaking engagements and insights, stay tuned on her social media and podcast platforms.

Join the Conversation!

Subscribe to The Career Equation Podcast for more inspiring guests and actionable insights to help you design a thriving career. Don’t forget to share this episode with friends, rate the show, and leave feedback—it shapes how we bring you the best content!

This week on The Career Equation Podcast, Erica Sosna welcomes Ollie Thorn, an accomplished speaker, advisor, and consultant specialising in resilience, culture, and diversity. Ollie’s inspiring career spans the military, professional sports, the charitable sector, and corporate leadership. From an unexpected spinal cord injury that drastically altered his life to becoming a father earlier this year, Ollie shares his incredible story of reinvention and growth.

 

The episode dives deep into Ollie's transition from feeling lost after his injury to becoming a passionate advocate for disability inclusion, leveraging storytelling to drive cultural change, and helping businesses create environments where everyone can thrive. Currently navigating his new chapter as an independent consultant, Ollie opens up about balancing his professional aspirations with fatherhood, building sustainable practices for his career, and championing inclusion for the 24% of the working-age population living with disabilities.

Key Topics Explored

• The Power of Life Events in Career Changes Ollie discusses how becoming a father has reshaped his priorities and inspired him to create a work-life balance that allows him to fully be present at home while pursuing meaningful work.
• Resilience and Reinvention After Trauma Ollie shares his experience navigating life with a spinal cord injury, from training as a military officer to adjusting to life in a wheelchair. His reflection on overcoming society's negative perceptions of disability is both moving and empowering.
• Creating Inclusive Workplaces With 24% of the working-age population living with disabilities, Ollie highlights the importance of building inclusive workplaces where employees feel safe sharing their needs. He discusses how storytelling can humanise disability and help shift corporate cultures towards belonging.
• The Career Equation Framework Erica guides Ollie through the Career Equation framework, identifying his core strengths, passions, and drivers. Together, they map out Ollie’s formula for success, including his skills in forging impactful relationships, passion for storytelling, and mission to drive sustainable cultural change.
• Insights for Leaders and Managers Ollie emphasises the need for career conversations, especially after significant life changes. Managers play a critical role in fostering open dialogue and understanding how an employee’s priorities might shift. Practical tips on maintaining empathy and nurturing high-performing teams are shared.
• Advice for Freelancers Reflecting on his new venture into freelance work, Ollie shares tips on staying focused, the importance of networking, and finding a rhythm when balancing family and professional goals. His candid look at the challenges and rewards of self-employment offers actionable inspiration for anyone considering a similar leap.

Memorable Quotes from Ollie Thorn

• “Going through trauma gave me the ability to see the world from different perspectives and develop empathy. It’s why I focus on building relationships based on trust.”
• “Disability isn’t a deficit; it’s a lens that allows innovation and creativity to thrive in the workplace.”
• “Becoming a father made me reflect deeply on what truly matters in life—and how I can adapt my career to align with those priorities.”

Takeaways for Listeners

1. The Importance of Resilience – Challenges can pave the way for reinvention and growth, whether they arise from personal or professional life.
2. Storytelling as a Tool for Change – Personal stories can create a ripple effect in changing perceptions and driving inclusion in the workplace.
3. Balancing Parenthood and Passion – Ollie's perspective on time management and prioritising family offers valuable insights for any working parent.

How to Connect with Ollie Thorn

Discover more about Ollie’s work and impactful storytelling by connecting with him on LinkedIn. Stay tuned for the launch of his personal website, where he will share more about speaking engagements, consulting services, and his mission for creating inclusive spaces.

Join the Conversation!

Follow The Career Equation on socials and subscribe for more inspiring stories and strategies to ignite your career transformation. Don’t forget to rate and share this episode—your feedback shapes the future of our show.

Nina Bainbridge is an executive coach who designs leadership programmes and looks to empower people with the skills to transform their everyday conversations in order to solve problems and make lasting connections.

 

Having worked with young people in a prison and matrons in a teaching hospital, she wants to change the view that coaching is only available to a select few, and encourage a broader range of people to understand the positive impact that it can have on their lives.

 

Key topics discussed

 

1. The beginnings and essentials of coaching

• Starting out by solving the problems of Barbie and Sindy dolls as a child
• Learning the importance of being a good listener and not interrupting people while they are sharing
• Bringing humanity to conversations to encourage people to share
• Stepping away from the pressure to rescue your client as a coach

1. Reaching a broader audience  

• Coaching in schools to create a coaching culture and reach a younger audience
• How to package coaching into soundbites and onto platforms so that it is accessible and immediately impactful

1. Overcoming self-doubt

• Putting your hand up for development opportunities even though on paper you may not feel qualified for them
• Trusting that your skills and strengths can be adapted in different environments like prisons 

1. Seeing the 'ripple effect' of your work

• Working with a teaching hospital with matrons who were under pressure, working somewhere where there is one answer in medical terms
• Getting fulfilment from seeing the transformational journey of others, including impact beyond just their working lives
• Forming a strong bond with an organisation and giving back to the NHS, having received great care

1. The Career Equation in Action

• Skills: Enabling and framing coaching in a way that is meaningful
• Passion: People learning to have coaching conversations
• Impact: Having conversations that ignite people's thinking
• Environment: Human, safe and meaningful

Inspiring takeaways

• The importance of maintaining a human element in all interactions
• Not putting yourself down for finding a difficult environment really challenging
• If you frame your conversations correctly, there is nothing wrong with trying to appeal to a broad range of clients 

Actionable Insights

• To learn new skills to broadcast and produce videos to achieve greater impact and online presence
• To use self-belief in innate skills as a grounding for scaling up the business through new connections

Resources and links

• Connect with Nina via LinkedIn or Everyday Coaching Skills
• Discover the Career Equation framework at www.thecareerequation.com

Don’t miss this great episode with Nina Bainbridge on The Career Equation podcast. Hear fascinating insight from her broad range of experiences - from prisons to hospitals - as she shares her journey as a coach who has come to realise the importance of being a good listener and bringing an element of humanity to conversations.

What happens when entrepreneurial spirit meets a passion for social impact? Join Erica Sosna and guest Dan Wallman, social entrepreneur and founder of both DV8 and TechNative, as they tackle the critical technical skills gap in the workforce. On this episode of The Career Equation, Dan reflects on his two-decade legacy building creative and skills-focused education programs and his newest mission to deliver employer-ready talent through an innovative, industry-led bootcamp model. Through the lens of the Career Equation framework, Erica and Dan explore his strengths in vision and innovation, his passion for empowering others, and his goal to create impactful, sustainable businesses. Dan shares lessons from his entrepreneurial ventures, the value of disrupting the status quo, and what it means to “be more pirate” in today’s world.

How do successful leaders transition into roles that truly align with their strengths and aspirations? Join Erica Sosna as she sits down with Annabelle Thebaud, a global HR and ESG expert, on this episode of The Career Equation. With over 20 years of corporate leadership experience spanning continents, Annabelle shares her inspiring career story, her passion for building human connections, and her ongoing quest to identify her zone of genius.

 

Through candid reflections, Annabelle explores her unique approach to connecting with diverse teams, navigating leadership transitions, and creating human-centered environments that foster success. Erica uses the Career Equation framework to help Annabelle reflect on her experiences and identify the ideal environment for her talents to thrive. Tune in for actionable insights and advice on being in transition, knowing your value, and designing a career that aligns with who you truly are.

Balancing a purpose-driven career with personal fulfilment can feel like solving an equation with too many variables. Join Erica Sosna in this episode of The Career Equation as she sits down with Larry Pearlman, a seasoned safety consultant and founder of Safety and Consulting Associates. With over 30 years of experience, Larry is an expert in safety culture, change management, and building systems that protect lives.

Larry discusses his career evolution from HR to becoming an industry leader in safety, guided by pivotal moments and a passion for keeping people safe. Erica helps Larry unpack his conundrum of striking a balance between continuing impactful work and planning for a fulfilling semi-retirement. Using her Career Equation framework, they explore the key components of a meaningful career, finding purpose in work, and maintaining balance.

Through captivating stories of life-saving interventions and strategies for cultural transformation, Larry reflects on how small changes and strong relationships create immeasurable impact. From partnering with global organisations to teaching the next generation of safety professionals, Larry’s mission is to leave a lasting legacy. Listen in for expert insights, compelling reflections, and actionable advice on thriving in career and life.

Get ready to wrap up the year with a powerful conversation! Join hosts Erica Sosna and Zoë Schofield as they share their proven three-question framework to simplify career conversations and make them meaningful, whether you're an individual navigating your next steps or a manager empowering your team.

This festive episode explores how to reflect on past achievements, plan for future success, and prepare for 2025 with clarity and purpose. Erica and Zoë reveal why preparation is key, how curiosity can lead to breakthroughs, and what managers can do to create an open, supportive environment for growth.

🎯 What you'll learn:

How to own your career and take control of your professional growth Why managers should prioritise structured, yet relaxed, career conversations Actionable tips for framing success, exploring experiences, and taking the next step With its practical insights and lighthearted holiday theme, this episode is your ultimate guide to meaningful career discussions. Tune in to discover how simple questions can create extraordinary opportunities for growth and connection. 🎧

🔗 Don't forget to check the shownotes for links to the Career Equation video and our ICF-accredited programme kicking off in January 2025!

How do you redefine your career to prioritise both impact and balance? On this episode of The Career Equation, Zoë Schofield speaks with Lucy Capon, founder and marketing director of Wellhouse, a consultancy dedicated to helping purpose-driven businesses grow and thrive. After a decade as head of marketing in the finance sector, Lucy made a bold leap—leaving corporate life for a remote working adventure in Thailand while building her own consultancy from scratch.

Lucy reflects on her career transition, her passion for coaching, and her approach to creating impactful marketing strategies. Using the Career Equation framework, Zoë helps Lucy explore her guiding principles, conundrums as a solo entrepreneur, and her vision for mentoring and enabling others. Tune in for insights on rediscovering purpose, navigating career pivots, and building a business you love.

Resources and links

• Connect with Lucy via LinkedIn or Wellhouse Marketing
• Discover the Career Equation framework at www.thecareerequation.com

How do you design a career that aligns with your values, leverages your strengths, and drives meaningful impact? Erica Sosna sits down with property investment powerhouse Anna Harper to unravel the balancing act between ambition and focus. With a career spanning over a decade in property and investment, Anna has navigated every twist and turn—whether building trust with individual investors, managing complex deals, or driving change at scale.

 

But, like many high-achievers, Anna has faced the daunting challenge of pursuing parallel paths that both demand her energy. Join Erica and Anna as they use The Career Equation, Erica's empowering framework for aligning talents, passions, values, and work environments, to solve Anna’s career conundrum and uncover powerful lessons you can apply to your own professional challenges.

 

What You’ll Learn in This Episode: This episode isn’t just an inspiring deep-dive into Anna’s career—it’s a roadmap for anyone feeling torn between multiple opportunities, ambitions, or markets. Together, Erica and Anna explore actionable strategies for finding clarity, making purpose-driven decisions, and reframing uncertainty as growth.

• How Anna discovered what truly drives her career fulfilment.
• The value of aligning your goals with your impact—professionally and personally.
• How slowing down and saying “no” can actually accelerate your career trajectory.
• Practical ways to build a work rhythm that supports energy, creativity, and productivity.

Through honesty, humour, and clear insights, this conversation is packed full of value—whether you’re an entrepreneur, a corporate employee, or a creative professional navigating complex career challenges.

Key Themes and Episode Breakdown: 1. Anna’s Professional Journey:

• From strategy consultant at Deloitte to property expert, Anna’s career path has been anything but linear. She explains how her early experience in real estate strategy eventually led to her co-founding GreenResi, a platform helping investors make informed decisions about energy-efficient homes.
• With over 300 property transactions under her belt and three books published, Anna shares how her love for problem-solving and writing became instrumental in her success.

2. The Career Conundrum:

• Currently balancing two distinct markets—consumer property investors and large institutional clients—Anna reveals the growing tension in her professional life.
• Erica helps Anna unpack her core challenge of needing to focus her energy on one market without feeling like she’s abandoning opportunities elsewhere.

3. Applying The Career Equation Framework:

Erica takes Anna through her four-part framework, tackling clarity from every angle and landing key insights along the way.

• Skills: Anna identifies grit, effective communication, and analysis as her standout traits.
• Passion: Writing, simplifying complex ideas, and helping others make informed decisions are where she thrives.
• Impact: Developing energy-efficient homes and creating real-world solutions for housing shortages give Anna’s career purpose and meaning.
• Environment: An ideal work setting for Anna includes collaboration with inspiring people, daily accountability systems, and room to learn and experiment without fear of failure.

4. The Power of Saying No:

• Erica and Anna take a close look at why saying “yes” to everything can dilute your energy and impact. Anna reflects on her fear of making the wrong career choice and Erica reframes it as an opportunity for strengthening focus and amplifying results.
• They also discuss how to maintain balance, allowing external opportunities to evolve naturally without letting them overtake your primary goals.

5. Lessons on Burnout and Building Resilience:

• Anna opens up about past experiences with burnout and shares her strategies for creating boundaries, avoiding presenteeism, and maximising her productivity in shorter, focused sprints.
• The episode highlights the importance of self-awareness and designing your workflow to meet your specific needs.

6. Impact-Driven Career Goals:

• Anna’s ambitious vision of delivering 1,000 sustainable homes by 2028 reflects her commitment to leaving a legacy in property investment.
• She shares how finding purpose in her work has kept her focused and energised, even in the face of challenges.

7. Anna's Takeaways:

• “You can do anything, but not everything.” This poignant truth inspires Anna’s move towards streamlining her efforts and doubling down on one clear path.
• Clarity comes with practice, and making decisions that align with your authentic self beats chasing fleeting opportunities.

Key Insights and Actionable Steps for Listeners:

• Why Focus Matters: Learn to identify and refine your top priorities—whether they reflect skills, passions, or impact—and dedicate your best energy to them.
• Celebrate Learning (and Failing): Approach challenges with curiosity rather than fear—setbacks are opportunities in disguise.
• Don’t Overcomplicate Success: Sometimes, success isn’t about doing more. It’s about doing fewer things better and purposefully.
• How to Build Accountability into Your Day: Daily or weekly check-ins, even with one trusted partner, can dramatically improve progress and focus.
• Burnout Prevention: Listen to your work rhythms and create a sustainable pace that supports long-term productivity and wellness.

 

About Anna Harper: Anna Harper is a property investment expert, writer, podcaster, and founder of GreenResi, where she helps investors make informed decisions about sustainable housing developments. With a degree in Land Economy from Cambridge, a successful career in strategy consulting at Deloitte, and a passion for addressing the UK housing crisis, Anna’s mission is to deliver solutions that balance profit with purpose.

Through her work, Anna aims to connect investors with the tools and insights they need to create meaningful impact—one home at a time.

Links and Resources:

• Connect with Anna Harper on LinkedIn for her latest content and updates.
• Discover GreenResi: Learn more about their innovative approach to residential investment.
• Read Anna’s books for accessible, actionable tips on property investment.
• Follow Erica Sosna on LinkedIn for career coaching insights and updates on The Career Equation Podcast.

🎧 Tune in to hear how Erica helped Anna unlock clarity in this thought-provoking, value-packed episode. This conversation is guaranteed to leave you inspired to take bold yet intentional steps toward your personal and professional goals.

Join host Zoë Schofield as she dives into an inspiring conversation with Marcie Shaoul, founder of Rolling Stone Coaching and the award-winning The Co-Parent Way, on this powerful episode of The Career Equation Podcast. Through her unique career story, Marcie reveals how personal experience, passion, and purpose drove her to make a lasting impact on families, businesses, and individuals. Together with Zoë, they explore Marcie’s career using the Career Equation framework, offering deep insights into why skills, passion, impact, and environment are crucial for your own thriving career.

 

✨ Key Takeaways:

• From Setback to Solution: Discover how Marcie’s own experiences with divorce and co-parenting inspired her to build The Co-Parent Way, a methodology that helps parents minimise conflict and prioritise their children. Marcie shares how this idea grew from a “sapling” into an innovative business that’s transforming lives and winning awards.
• The Art of Listening to Lead: Conflict resolution is at the heart of Marcie’s work—whether she’s facilitating meaningful dialogue between co-parents or coaching executives and teams to communicate better. Learn why impeccable listening and using the right language are often the keys to breaking down barriers.
• Pivoting with Purpose: Hear Marcie’s candid stories of career pivots. From leaving a career in music journalism to retraining as a coach and growing her businesses, Marcie’s path is a masterclass in backing yourself, trusting your instincts, and staying true to what you believe in.
• Behind the Scenes of Scaling a Business: Marcie opens up about her steep learning curve as she embraces Instagram to expand The Co-Parent Way. Find out how she’s balancing her private nature with the public demands of social media to reach her ambitious goal of helping thousands of families worldwide.
• Lessons in Environment and Wellbeing: Drawing on her own experiences, Marcie reflects on the power of environment—how it impacts your confidence and determines how you thrive. She shares practical tips for creating nourishing surroundings at work and ensuring you never lose sight of what’s most important.
• Zoë’s Expert Guidance: With warmth and insight, host Zoë Schofield masterfully guides the conversation, using the Career Equation framework to highlight moments that defined Marcie’s career. Zoë unpacks the four career pillars—skills, passion, impact, and environment—and offers actionable takeaways for listeners navigating their own career journeys.

🚀 Whether you’re juggling competing roles, dreaming of building something new, or wrestling with internal or external conflict, this episode will fuel your ambition and provide practical inspiration to drive positive change in your career and personal life.

🎧 Tune in now for insights, stories, and advice that could reshape the way you approach work, relationships, and success.

 

Connect with Marcie and The Co-Parent Way:

• Follow her conflict-reducing approach on Instagram at @TheCoParentWay
• Explore executive and leadership coaching at rollingstonecoaching.com
• Pre-order her much-anticipated book, The Co-Parenting Method, out this March

Don’t Miss Out on more episodes of The Career Equation Podcast! Follow Zoë Schofield as she brings career-changing conversations to your earbuds, helping you solve your own career equation every step of the way.

 

#CareersWithImpact #ConflictResolution #CoParentingSuccess #CareerClarity #TheCareerEquation #WorkAndThrive

It’s easy to focus on the future when thinking about your career — the next role, the next promotion, the next leap. But what if some of your most useful career clues are hiding in the past?

In this episode, Erica and Zoë dig into the power of reflection. They explore how looking back at your career journey so far — the highs, the lows, and everything in between — can help you make smarter, more intentional decisions about what comes next. You’ll hear why your past experiences matter, how to spot the patterns that reveal what really makes you tick, and how the Career Timeline exercise can give you fresh clarity on where you’re heading.

They also unpack the Career Equation — their simple but powerful framework for designing a fulfilling working life — and show how it connects directly to your own personal story.

Whether you’re planning a big move, feeling stuck, or just want to understand yourself better at work, this episode is full of practical tips, warm encouragement, and real-life insight.

⸻

✨ In this episode, you’ll find:

•A simple but powerful way to reflect on your career journey

•How to identify what energises you — and what drains you

•Tips to map your highs and lows (and why both matter)

•Why sharing your story can build trust and confidence at work

•A fresh look at how to apply the Career Equation to your next step

•Ideas for using this tool as a manager, coach or mentor

🎧 Listen in and give yourself the space to reflect — your next chapter might just start here.

⸻

🔗 Links & Resources:

•How to build your own Career Timeline

•Info on our ICF-accredited coaching programme – starts May 2025

•Connect with Erica and Zoë on LinkedIn

 

#TheCareerEquation #CareerDevelopment #CareerReflection #CareerClarity #WorkAndThrive #ProfessionalGrowth

Join Zoë Schofield on this inspiring episode of The Career Equation Podcast as she welcomes Charlotte Pascoe, founder of Signature Fitness and an advocate for holistic health and wellness. Charlotte shares her incredible career transformation—from a demanding corporate role in local government to a thriving career in personal training and sports therapy. By combining her leadership skills, passion for health, and a deep connection with her clients, Charlotte demonstrates that it’s never too late to chase a fulfilling, purpose-driven career.

Through the lens of the Career Equation framework, Charlotte and Zoë unpack the personal and professional moments that define what it truly means to thrive in work and life. Perfect for anyone considering a career pivot or searching for insights on the balance between health, passion, and impact, this episode is filled with actionable advice and inspiration.

 

✨ What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• From Local Government to Holistic Wellness: Take a behind-the-scenes look at Charlotte’s brave leap from a corporate career to launching her own health and fitness business. She shares the catalyst for her dramatic career shift and how overcoming personal challenges, including breast cancer, led her to reevaluate what truly mattered.
• The Power of Passion in Business: Discover how Charlotte turned a personal love of fitness into a professional venture that empowers others. From helping clients build physical confidence to supporting mental wellbeing, Charlotte explains why a holistic approach underpins the success of Signature Fitness.
• Navigating the Unknown of Career Pivots: Charlotte opens up about the challenges of finding her niche in a competitive industry. Hear her candid reflections on stepping out of her comfort zone and trialling new approaches to connect with her ideal audience.
• Career Lessons from the Public Sector: Before founding Signature Fitness, Charlotte managed large-scale health and social care services. Learn how her ability to build trust, lead multidisciplinary teams, and implement lasting change prepared her for running her own business.
• Using the Career Equation to Redesign Work: Guided by Zoë’s expertise, Charlotte dives into the four components of the Career Equation—skills, passion, impact, and environment. She describes how recognising these elements helped her create a fulfilling, client-focused career where she genuinely loves showing up every day.
• Creating the Right Environment for Wellness: Charlotte explores the importance of working in an environment that energises and supports you. From flexible working hours to building face-to-face connections with her clients, Charlotte shares how she crafts her thriving zone to be happy and productive.
• Health Goals Beyond the Gym: One of Charlotte’s key messages is that health and fitness aren’t quick fixes—they’re sustainable lifestyle changes. Hear how she adapts her training and conversations to address the unique drivers of her clients, whether it’s building strength to keep up with grandchildren or entering a first-ever race.

🚀 Why Listen?

This episode is packed with insights for anyone wondering whether it’s time to pivot careers and follow their passion. Whether you’re struggling with burnout in your corporate job, dreaming of starting your own business, or trying to create meaningful change in your current role, Charlotte’s story offers practical takeaways and hope.

 

🎧 Hit play now to discover how your skills, passions, and ideal environment can help you design not just a career you love, but a life that thrives.

 

💡 Actionable Takeaways:

1. Reflect on your own Career Equation to identify what’s missing in your current work setup.
2. Take steps to align your passions with your professional path, even if it means starting small.
3. Explore how health—both physical and mental—can support your success in all aspects of life.

Connect with Charlotte and Explore Signature Fitness:

• Visit Charlotte’s website at signature-fitness.co.uk
• Follow Signature Fitness on Instagram and Facebook for insights, tips, and updates.
• Find Charlotte at Cheltenham Health and Fitness Club, where she offers personal training and sports massage services tailored to your unique needs.

Don’t Forget to subscribe to The Career Equation Podcast for more transformational career stories and guidance from host Zoë Schofield!

 

#CareerChange #HealthAndFitness #HolisticWellness #ThrivingCareers #PersonalTraining #CareerTransformation

What if burnout wasn’t the end — but the beginning of designing a life entirely on your own terms?

 

In this episode, Erica Sosna sits down with Winston Ben Clements — global speaker, resilience coach and inclusion advocate — to explore how a shift from a tech career to the speaking stage became not just a career pivot, but a whole new way of living.

 

Winston shares candidly about navigating corporate environments as a disabled professional, the early signs of burnout, and the pivotal moment he realised he wanted a different kind of life. From building speaking skills at Toastmasters to standing on a TEDx stage, Winston’s story is a powerful example of designing work around strengths, purpose, and true impact.

 

They discuss the challenges of rebuilding in a new country, the surprising link between creativity and confidence, and why empathy and inclusive thinking are vital parts of thriving workplaces — and thriving lives.

 

⸻

 

✨ In this episode, you’ll hear:

• Why burnout can sometimes be a hidden career gift

• Winston’s transition from computer science to keynote speaking

• How environments — not just mindsets — shape success

• The impact of early encouragement and creativity on career confidence

• The ripple effect of inclusive workplaces and storytelling

• Reflections on redesigning work to fit who you really are, not just what you can do

 

🎧 Whether you’re pivoting careers, starting again in a new environment, or simply rethinking what fulfilment looks like, this episode offers hope, encouragement and sharp insight into what’s possible.

 

⸻

 

🔗 Links & Resources:

• Connect with Winston Ben Clements on Instagram and LinkedIn

• Connect with Erica Sosna on LinkedIn

• Find out more at The Career Equation website

 

#TheCareerEquation #CareerDevelopment #BurnoutRecovery #WorkAndThrive #PurposeDrivenCareer

It’s easy to undervalue the things that come naturally — especially when they don’t come with a fancy title or certificate. But those everyday strengths you’ve developed over time? They’re your transferable skills — and they matter more than ever in today’s fast-moving world of work.

 

In this episode, Erica and Zoë explore why transferable skills are so powerful, and how to uncover the ones you might be taking for granted. From planning a family holiday to leading a team project, the skills you build across all areas of life often hold the key to your career development.

 

You’ll hear stories from past guests who’ve made bold career moves — from teaching to steampunk rapping, corporate life to château-renovating — all made possible by a strong sense of the skills they could take with them.

 

They also dive into practical frameworks to help you tell better stories about your strengths, and share advice for managers and coaches to help others do the same.

 

Whether you’re starting fresh, stuck in a rut, or mentoring a team — this is your permission to own what you’re brilliant at.

 

⸻

 

✨ In this episode, you’ll find:

•What a transferable skill really is — and why you probably have more than you think

•A simple exercise to spot the skills that energise you most

•Why your “natural” strengths are often the most valuable

•How to use your career story to surface hidden skills

•Ways managers and mentors can help others grow in their roles

•Tools to boost your confidence and sharpen your career focus

 

🎧 Give yourself a moment to reflect. You might be sitting on strengths you haven’t even named yet.

 

⸻

 

🔗 Links & Resources:

•ICF-accredited coaching programme – starts May 2025

•Connect with Erica: linkedin.com/in/ericasosna

•Connect with Zoë: linkedin.com/in/zoeschofieldcoach

 

⸻

 

#TheCareerEquation #TransferableSkills #CareerDevelopment #WorkAndThrive #CareerClarity #ProfessionalGrowth

In this second part of Erica’s conversation with Jonathan Black, Head of Oxford University’s Careers Service and careers columnist for the Financial Times, they explore how to truly prepare for a 21st-century career — one driven by impact, adaptability, and learning.

 

From internships to alumni networks, Jonathan shares practical insights into how students can gain meaningful work experience, discover career paths they hadn’t considered, and gain clarity around what really matters. They also discuss the evolution of careers advice, the growing importance of purpose-led roles, and how to navigate a career change with intention and confidence.

 

Whether you’re just starting out or making a mid-career move, this episode is full of actionable takeaways, thoughtful strategies, and the kind of honest wisdom that helps turn ambition into progress.

 

⸻

 

✨ In this episode, you’ll learn:

•Why employers value real-world experience (even a job at McDonald’s)

•How internships and micro-projects offer critical exposure to working life

•The growing demand for purpose-driven roles in the third sector

•How Oxford is piloting innovative ways to connect students and alumni

•Advice for mid-career professionals looking to pivot with confidence

•Why defining your ‘North Star’ can unlock surprising opportunities

 

🎧 This conversation shines a light on how careers are really built — through experimentation, reflection, and a clear sense of purpose.

 

⸻

 

🔗 Links & Resources:

•Connect with Jonathan Black on LinkedIn

•Connect with Erica Sosna on LinkedIn

•Explore Oxford University Careers Service

 

#TheCareerEquation #CareerDevelopment #PurposeDrivenCareers #ProfessionalGrowth #CareerPivot #OxfordCareers

In this first part of a fascinating two-part conversation, Erica sits down with Jonathan Black, Head of Oxford University’s Careers Service, to explore how career journeys really unfold — and why sometimes a wake-up call in a French farmhouse or a cheap motel can lead to some of the most pivotal, empowering choices.

 

With a career that spans engineering, publishing, consulting and entrepreneurship, Jonathan reflects candidly on the pivots, missteps, and moments of clarity that shaped his path — and the patterns he sees in the students and professionals he’s advised over the years.

 

They discuss the power of conscious career decisions, how to untangle parental and peer pressures, why staying too long in the wrong role is more common than we admit — and how being true to your values and environment is a key part of the Career Equation.

 

 

✨ In this episode, you’ll hear:

• Why choice and control matter more than titles and salaries

• The moment Jonathan knew he needed to walk away from consulting

• What redundancy can teach us (once the dust settles)

• How to spot a role that fits not just your skills, but your lifestyle

• Honest reflections on challenges and what they can teach us

• Insights into the world of Oxford careers advising — and what students really worry about

 

🎧 Whether you’re mid-career and wondering what’s next, or just starting out and figuring out what matters most, this episode offers thoughtful guidance, encouragement, and plenty of food for thought.

 

 

🔗 Links & Resources:

 

• Connect with Jonathan Black on LinkedIn

• Connect with Erica Sosna on LinkedIn

• Explore Oxford University Careers Service

 

 

#TheCareerEquation #CareerDevelopment #CareerClarity #WorkAndThrive #ProfessionalGrowth #OxfordCareers

In this episode, Erica chats with Niamh O’Connell, Talent Integration Director at Flutter International, about what really makes careers feel fulfilling — and what gets in the way.   They dig into what it means to take ownership of your own development, why traditional frameworks often fall short, and how to build support around people in a way that actually works.   Niamh shares how her team is rethinking career paths, supporting self-led growth, and helping people find the right fit — not just the next role. They talk honestly about what it takes to shift mindsets, give managers the right tools, and create room for people to figure out what they want.   Whether you’re working in people and culture, managing a team, or figuring out your own next step — this one’s full of grounded ideas and fresh ways to think about career growth.   ⸻   In this conversation:   •Why rigid career paths often do more harm than good •Flutter’s “Power Hours” – and why they matter •How to support better career conversations between managers and teams •The role of peer-led learning and expert “accelerators” •Building scalable, capability-based approaches to career development •How Flutter defines and supports their own “skill seekers” — and why naming them matters •Creating flexible development strategies that actually flex across teams and business units •Why environment plays a bigger role than most people realise •Helping people figure out the stage of business they thrive in •Internal mobility, mindset shifts, and learning that sticks   Connect with Niamh on Linkedin Connect with Erica on Linkedin Find out more at The Career Equation website

In this episode, Erica and Zoë take a deep dive into one of the most powerful (and misunderstood) parts of career fulfilment: passion.

They explore how to actually figure out what excites you — not just hobbies or dream jobs, but the stuff that gives you energy, matters to you, and makes work feel worth doing. Whether it’s a topic, a cause, or simply a way of working, passion plays a big role in helping us feel like we’re in the right place.

They also share personal stories, coaching insights, and practical ways to make use of your passions — even if you’re not planning a big career change. And for managers and people leaders, there’s plenty in here on how to support others without opening a can of worms.

⸻

In this conversation:

 

• Why ‘passion’ doesn’t have to mean chasing your dreams or quitting your job • How to spot what really energises you (hint: it’s not always obvious) • The power of small tweaks over big leaps • What to do if you’ve got loads of passions — or none at all • How hobbies and interests can give you clues, even if they stay outside of work • Real-life stories from coaching clients and past guests • Ways to reflect on what matters — and what doesn’t need to be monetised • How to use the Career Equation to connect the dots • Advice for leaders: having the passion conversation without fearing the worst • Why it’s okay if your passions change (or don’t fit neatly in a box)

Connect with Erica on Linkedin Connect with Zoë on Linkedin

Find out more at The Career Equation website

How do you keep going when the path ahead is full of unknowns?

In this episode, Zoë is joined by tech entrepreneur Anya Cheng for a rich, honest conversation about navigating change — and backing yourself when things feel uncertain.

Anya’s story takes us from early career rejection and visa struggles to founding her own company, Taelor, which helps people look sharp without the usual stress of shopping or laundry. Along the way, she talks about the skills she’s carried through it all — resilience, connection, and a knack for solving problems in unconventional ways.

It’s a conversation about the messy, nonlinear path to success — and how our superpowers often come from the things we first had to fight for.

Whether you’re leading something, starting something, or still figuring it all out, there’s something in here for you.

⸻

In this conversation:

• What rejection teaches you — and why it matters • The scrappy, human side of breaking into a new industry • Building Taelor — and solving real-life problems through tech • Creating a business that reflects your values • The difference one person’s belief can make • When you know what “good” looks like… but you’re still building • Spotting potential in others (even when it’s not obvious) • Thriving in chaos — and knowing when it’s time to grow

⸻

Find out more: • Anya Cheng on LinkedIn • taelor.style — use code podcast for a discount

Connect with Zoë on LinkedIn

More at The Career Equation website

 

 

We all want to make an impact — but what does that actually mean?

In this episode, Erica and Zoë explore one of the most powerful (and personal) elements of the Career Equation. Impact is the difference you make — in your work, your world, and the lives of others. But it’s also where energy comes from. When you feel like your work matters, everything shifts.

This is a reflective, practical guide to working out what success means to you, and how to measure it on your own terms — not just titles, salary, or what’s trending on LinkedIn. Whether you’re figuring things out or leading a team, it’s packed with tools and questions to help you build a career that truly counts.

⸻

In this conversation: • Why impact is personal — and always evolving • Getting clear on what success looks like for you • Why people stay (or leave) based on meaning, not money • How to ask the right questions — as a leader, coach or mentor • Ways to create more impact in your current role • How to spot your own sweet spots — and grow from there • Why measuring your impact boosts motivation • Real stories of people reshaping their careers after major change

⸻

Find out more: • Erica Sosna on LinkedIn • Zoë Schofield on LinkedIn • More at thecareerequation.com

What happens when the industry you’ve given decades to starts crumbling — and what comes next?

 

In this episode, Zoë talks to Jayne Brierley — a seasoned TV producer turned consultant, who’s helping production companies shape stories, win commissions, and keep British storytelling alive. From stepping back during burnout to jumping into consultancy with clarity, Jayne shares what she’s learned from both the highs and lows of a creative career.

 

It’s a masterclass in adaptation — and a reminder that the magic happens when you stay true to your voice, even in uncertain times.

 

⸻

 

In this conversation:

•Why “just enough” might be your sweet spot

•What it really takes to change industry — and why it’s harder than it looks

•The joy of making magic with like-minded creatives

•The four elements of a thriving career (and how to spot them in your story)

•Tips for leaders and hirers on spotting overlooked talent

•Why the best environment brings out your best work

•How Jayne uses the Career Equation to stay on track — and why she’s backing herself

 

⸻

 

Find out more:

Jayne Brierley on LinkedIn

Zoë Schofield on LinkedIn

More at thecareerequation.com

How much does your work environment really matter? More than you might think.

Erica and Zoë take a deep dive into the role environment plays in career satisfaction and success. It's not just about the job title or company name—it's about where you feel alive and can truly thrive. This episode gets into how the right setting fuels your growth and performance, and how the wrong one can feel like trying to fit a square peg into a round hole.

Join the conversation as they unpack the nuances of environment, offering insights into how to identify what you need to flourish at work. From the physical space to the cultural vibe, every element has the potential to support or stifle your professional journey.

⸻

In this conversation:

• The underestimated power of environmental fit

• Recognising the signs of a misaligned work setting

• Tools to audit your past environments for clues

• How to design your ideal work environment

• Real stories of transformation through environmental shifts

• The impact of pace and space on your energy and creativity

• Why environment is crucial to your personal career equation

• Practical steps to align your work setting with your needs

⸻

 

Previous Episodes Mentioned

 

Jonathan Black

https://pod.link/1767894956/episode/60baa5346f49abdebcbd3129a1b4237b

 

Susan Emmett

https://pod.link/1767894956/episode/9a7e4b6603b6c3fdd702366e256c4c28

 

Melanie Rickey

https://pod.link/1767894956/episode/5b4d0bba23a66bcf20ebea16dc50297a

 

Lucy Cappon

https://pod.link/1767894956/episode/41916adb39e60dafca99b3ed33d60762

 

 

Find out more:

• Erica Sosna on LinkedIn

• Zoë Schofield on LinkedIn

• More at thecareerequation.com

 

Take a moment to reflect on your own work environment—what energises you, and what holds you back? Share your experiences and join the discussion on social media. Let's explore how the right fit can transform your career experience.

We’ve all had those moments — wondering if we’re just drifting through our careers without a map.

In this episode, Erica speaks with Jed Novick, a journalist turned lecturer, now at a turning point as he approaches retirement. Jed’s journey — from writing spoof TV listings to mentoring students — is a reminder that a meaningful career can emerge from the most unexpected turns.

Before becoming an academic, Jed worked at the BBC, The Independent, and other major outlets. Now, he shares what he’s learned about storytelling, legacy, and staying curious.

This isn’t just a story about career change. It’s about stepping back, asking what really matters, and creating a new chapter with intention.

In this episode:

• Embracing career serendipity

• Balancing structure with spontaneity

• Finding fulfilment beyond job titles

• Why journalism still matters

• Mentoring the next generation

• Leaving a “job for life”

• What purpose looks like after retirement

 

Find out more:

• Erica Sosna on LinkedIn

• Jed Novick on LinkedIn

• More at thecareerequation.com

Language is more than words; it’s power, identity, and sometimes a barrier.  Today, Erica welcomes Sarah Jane Seatherton, a trailblazer in empowering women who speak English as a second language.  Sarah Jane’s work isn’t just about language; it’s about liberating voices from the constraints of societal expectations and internalised self-doubt.

Sarah Jane shares her journey from an executive English teacher to a power practitioner, revealing how she helps women access their innate leadership potential.  Her programmes are about more than just fluency; they’re about breaking through the subconscious limitations that hold women back.

This episode dives into the complexities of communication in leadership roles, especially for women navigating international environments.  It’s a fascinating look at how altering your focus and fostering self-acceptance can transform your leadership presence, regardless of the language you speak.

 

⸻

 

In this conversation:

 

• The link between language and personal power
• How perfectionism and self-doubt hinder communication
• Practical techniques to shift your focus and harness your voice
• The significance of creating supportive environments for women leaders
• Stories of transformation and empowerment from Sarah Janes’s clients
• How to cultivate your own ‘entelechy’ — living to your fullest potential
• The ripple effects of empowered communication on organisational culture

 

⸻

Find out more:

Sarah Jane Seatherton on LinkedIn

Visit Sarah Jane’s website: sarahjane.life

Read Erica’s Book - Your Life Plan

Erica Sosna on LinkedIn

More at thecareerequation.com

What happens when a creative soul gets thrown into the world of corporate sales? Today, Zoë welcomes Danny Fontaine, who transformed from a struggling salesperson into IBM's experiential sales leader and bestselling author of "Pitch: How to Captivate and Convince Any Audience on the Planet."

Danny's story isn't just about mastering the art of pitching; it's about discovering that the very traits he tried to hide were actually his greatest strengths. From recreating cocktail bars in office spaces to orchestrating Hollywood-style presentations, Danny reveals how bringing genuine emotion and immersive experiences to business can create unforgettable moments that audiences go home and tell their families about.

This episode explores the delicate balance between ambition and burnout, the power of showing up as your authentic self, and how creative rebellion can become your competitive advantage in corporate environments. It's a masterclass in turning perceived weaknesses into career-defining strengths.

⸻

In this conversation:

• How reading body language became Danny's secret weapon in sales
• The transformative power of creating immersive, emotional experiences in pitches
• Why trying to fit in nearly ended his IBM career before it began
• The breakthrough moment when authenticity became his superpower
• Practical strategies for mentoring and delegating without losing quality
• How to find mentors both inside and outside your organisation
• The art of saying no: prioritising through the lens of passion and impact
• Why shared emotional experiences create lasting business relationships
• How to bring Hollywood production values to corporate presentations

⸻

Find out more:

• Find Danny on Linkedin
• Connect with Zoë on Linkedin
• Danny Fontaine's book "Pitch" - available on Amazon and major bookshops
• Website: pitchguy.co.uk
• Follow Danny on social media: search "Danny Fontaine" or "Pitch Guy"
• More at thecareerequation.com

So… you’re thinking of starting a podcast?

 

This episode is a behind-the-scenes guide to launching one, full of practical tips, and a few cautionary tales from Erica and Zoë’s own journey so far. From mics and editing to why clarity matters more than kit, this is the episode they wish they’d had before they started.

 

They unpack the deeper ‘why’ behind podcasting — not just for the sake of it, but as a way to show what you do, connect with the right audience, and build momentum in a noisy world.

Podcasting is rewarding, but it’s also work. It takes consistency, planning, and a willingness to just get started even if everything isn't perfect.

 

Whether you’re a coach thinking of going live, a founder building your brand, or someone with something to say and no idea where to start, this is the episode for you!

 

In this episode:

 

• Why podcasting has to be driven by purpose, not ego or trends

• The reality of showing up week after week (even when no one’s clapping)

• Tips on planning, kit, guests, and structure, without overcomplicating it

• What they got right — and what they’d do differently now

• The power of starting before you feel ready

 

Connect with Erica on Linkedin

Connect with Zoë on Linkedin

Find out more at thecareerequation.com

AI has gone from something that felt like science fiction to being in your inbox, your workflow, and probably on your team. And if you're a mid-level professional feeling a bit overwhelmed by it all, you're definitely not alone.

 

AI Career Advice for Today's Professionals

Erica and Zoë dive into how artificial intelligence is actually changing work across industries—and spoiler alert, it's not about robots stealing your job. It's about law firms using AI tools like Harvey to speed up contract drafting, marketers getting ChatGPT to help with brainstorming, and teachers using AI tutors for personalised learning. But more than that, it's about how we're all feeling about this massive shift in the job market.

 

Latest AI Job Market Trends and Data

They've dug into the latest research from McKinsey, Harvard Business Review, Pew, and PWC, and the numbers are pretty staggering. 72% of companies are now using AI in their workflows, 30% of current tasks could be automated by 2030, and over half of workers are genuinely worried about artificial intelligence career impact. The future of work is shifting fast, and mid-career professionals are feeling the squeeze most.

 

Practical AI Upskilling Strategies

But here's the thing, this isn't about mastering everything overnight. It's about getting curious, having a go with some AI productivity tools, and remembering that your uniquely human skills aren't going anywhere. Your empathy, judgement, creativity, and ability to lead people through change? AI can't touch that. This episode gives you practical AI career development strategies that actually work.

 

In this conversation:

• AI adoption statistics and why the pace of change feels so intense

• Why 52% of workers are anxious about AI automation career effects

• Real-world AI tools in action across tech, finance, law, marketing, media, and education sectors

• Career risks of ignoring AI versus opportunities for professional AI skills development

• Best AI courses for professionals who aren't tech experts

• Hands-on ChatGPT for work productivity and other AI tool experiments

• Online communities for AI learning and professional development

• Personal AI tool experiences—the productivity wins and epic fails

• Why human skills remain your competitive advantage in an AI world

• How to collaborate with AI rather than compete against artificial intelligence

• Setting up regular "AI curiosity blocks" for skill building

• Maintaining your authentic professional voice when using AI writing tools

Essential AI Tools Every Professional Should Know:

• ChatGPT for work tasks and productivity

• GitHub Copilot for coding and development

• Grammarly for AI-powered writing assistance

• Jasper for content creation and marketing

• Adobe Firefly for design and creative work

• Harvey for legal professionals

AI Training Resources for Career Development:

• Coursera's "AI for Everyone" course for non-technical professionals

• Elements of AI from University of Helsinki (free AI education)

• LinkedIn Learning's industry-specific AI courses

• Reddit communities for AI career advice and tool sharing

• Ben's Bites and Rundown AI newsletters for staying current

Find out more:

• Erica Sosna on LinkedIn

• Zoë Schofield on LinkedIn

• More at thecareerequation.com

 

Whether you're excited, sceptical, or feeling completely overwhelmed by artificial intelligence in the workplace, this episode will give you practical AI career advice and encouragement to help you lead—not lag—through this AI revolution. The key to future-proofing your career? Start experimenting with AI tools, stay curious about artificial intelligence trends, and remember: AI won't replace you, but a professional using AI might.

Career Clarity Summer School: Free Podcast Course for Career Change and Professional Development

This summer, we're launching The Career Clarity Summer School – a completely free, interactive podcast course designed to help you figure out what's next in your career journey.

Free Career Guidance Course Starting August 2025

Over six short and powerful episodes, Zoë and Erica will walk you through The Career Equation® – the same career development method trusted by Amazon, Rolls Royce SMR, Thales, and BACB to help professionals like you find fulfilling, energising work that actually fits.

Perfect for Career Pivots, Burnout Recovery, and Finding Career Direction

Whether you're navigating career burnout, planning a career change, or just want more professional direction, this career clarity course will help you define your sweet spot – where your strengths, interests, impact and needs align. We'll show you how your unique career story and professional biography can generate profound insights about your career design. And we promise to get you bright-eyed, clear and ready to take action to realise your career dreams and goals, just in time for the Autumn term!

Starts 4th August 2025 – subscribe to The Career Equation podcast now so you're ready when it goes live.

A wake-up call for your working life: understand your 80,000 hours and why career ownership starts now.   Welcome to the first episode of the Career Clarity mini-series.   Over the next six episodes, we’ll guide you through a practical framework to help you take ownership of your career, define success on your own terms, and build work that fits you — not the other way around.   In this first episode, we’re talking about time. You’ll spend roughly 80,000 hours at work across your life — more than with your family, more than sleeping. So how do you make those hours count?   We explore:

• Why most people fall into their careers, and how to start choosing differently
• The idea of “career drift” vs. career design
• How to uncover the success scripts you’ve internalised — and whether they’re really yours
• A reflection exercise to help define what success looks and feels like to you, now

  We also touch on why it’s never too late to shift gears — even if you’re 20 years in.   You can pause the episode as you go to reflect, or just listen through and come back later. If you’d like extra support, there’s a companion workbook available to buy via the link in the show notes.   This is the start of a short, practical journey to help you get clear on what matters — and to use that clarity to shape a more fulfilling working life.   To access the workbook or book a 121 visit www.thecareerequation.com/clarity   Find out more:   • Erica Sosna on LinkedIn   • Zoë Schofield on LinkedIn  

If you’re feeling stuck in your career or unsure what direction to take next, this episode is for you.

 

To access the workbook or book a 121 visit www.thecareerequation.com/clarity

 

In the second episode of the Career Clarity Mini Series, Erica Sosna and Zoë Schofield explore how your personal and professional experiences hold the key to your next step, if you know where to look.

 

This isn’t about revising your CV. It’s about recognising the deeper patterns in your story: the moments that energised you, the environments where you thrived, and the times your work felt truly meaningful.

 

You’ll be guided through four powerful reflection questions that help you:

 

• Identify your natural strengths
• Pinpoint what genuinely motivates you
• Understand where you do (and don’t) belong
• Connect the dots between your past and future path

 

Whether you’re actively job hunting or just feeling disconnected from your work, this episode will help you shift from confusion to clarity, using the experiences you already have.

 

In this conversation:

 

• How to use your story as a tool for career decision-making
• What your early experiences reveal about your natural design
• Why energy, meaning, and fit matter more than job titles
• The surprising value of career “wrong turns”
• How to recognise the conditions you need to thrive
• What career alignment really looks like in practice

Learn more:

• Erica Sosna on LinkedIn
• Zoë Schofield on LinkedIn
• Visit thecareerequation.com

 

If you’re feeling stuck in your career or wondering what’s next, this episode will help you get career clarity and build a plan you can trust.

 

To access the workbook or book a 121 visit www.thecareerequation.com/clarity

 

In the third episode of the Career Clarity Mini Series, Erica Sosna and Zoë Schofield take you through the heart of the Career Equation, a proven framework to identify the four elements that matter most to your career happiness:

 

• Skills — what you’re naturally good at and where you excel
• Passions — the topics, causes, and activities that energise you
• Impact — the difference you want to make and the values you want to uphold
• Environment — the conditions you need to do your best work

 

You’ll learn how to map these into a career design statement, your personal compass for making career decisions. This is more than polishing a CV; it’s about uncovering your career sweet spot and building a career path that fits who you are.

 

By the end of this episode, you’ll have a clear set of criteria to guide your next steps, whether you’re job hunting, planning a career change, or simply looking to thrive in your current role.

 

Use our free The Career Equation® Builder here: https://www.thecareerequation.com/tools-resources

 

In this conversation:

 

• How to use the Career Equation to find your career sweet spot
• Why skills, passions, impact, and environment matter equally
• Practical exercises to uncover hidden strengths
• The role of environment in long-term career satisfaction
• How to prioritise what really matters in your career planning

 

Learn more:

• Erica Sosna on LinkedIn
• Zoë Schofield on LinkedIn
• Visit thecareerequation.com

 

If you’re ready to move from career clarity into action, this episode is for you.

 

In episode five of the Career Clarity Mini Series, career experts Erica Sosna and Zoë Schofield guide you through how to set the right kind of career goal, one that actually matches your context, energy, and values right now.

 

You’ll discover three different types of career goals: progress, development, and learning, and how to choose the one that best supports your Career Design Statement. By the end of the episode, you’ll know how to set a goal that’s achievable, motivating, and aligned with where you want to grow next.

 

To access the workbook or book a 121 visit www.thecareerequation.com/clarity

 

This episode will help you:

• Understand the three kinds of career goals (progress, development, learning)
• Match your goal to your Career Design Statement
• Avoid overthinking and get into action quickly
• Use smart criteria to make your goals specific and trackable
• Build momentum with short-term, achievable milestones

 

By the end of the episode, you’ll have a clear, practical goal in place to move your career forward.

 

Book your 1:1 Career Clarity Session here: thecareerequation.com/clarity

 

Try the free Career Equation® Builder: thecareerequation.com/tools-resources

 

Learn more:

• Erica Sosna on LinkedIn
• Zoë Schofield on LinkedIn
• Visit thecareerequation.com