Career Conversations with Ola – Details, episodes & analysis

In Episode 14 of Career Conversations with Ola, I sat down with Ayoola Iwayemi, an HR consultant, learning advocate, and passionate voice in talent development.

Ayoola’s journey into HR didn’t start with a traditional degree or perfect roadmap. It started with curiosity, a love for people, and a mindset rooted in continuous learning. In this episode, we explore why self-awareness is one of the most underrated tools for professional growth, how to navigate career challenges with confidence, and why collaboration will always beat competition in the long game.

We also discussed the shifting landscape of work, what automation can’t replace, how to stay relevant, and why knowing yourself is key to standing out in any industry.

Here’s what you’ll take away from this episode:

• Why self-awareness is a career superpower

• How to overcome impostor syndrome and own your path

• The value of guided collaboration over solo hustle

• Why human skills will define the future of work

• How to align your purpose with your professional goals

Whether you’re early in your journey or reevaluating your next move, Ayoola’s insights will help you reconnect with what drives growth, from the inside out.

🎧 Listen on Spotify: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/1h9tlWvM22GeEKgfQdjMvl?si=8ff32b204d38406f⁠🎧 Follow on Apple Podcasts:⁠⁠ ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/career-conversations-with-ola/id1792185014⁠📺 Watch the full video on YouTube:⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLcwB_QLnp76KNYKH_l81ZhPAfcBRHKVYJ&si=jJEsJEo6GtSh-dwW⁠⁠⁠⁠👋 Connect with Ayoola Iwayemi on LinkedIn:

⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ayoola-iwayemi/

Episode 13 of Career Conversations with Ola features Amanda Gilchrist, a Vice President in financial services, strategic leader, and advocate for mentorship, growth, and resilience.

Amanda’s professional journey began in an entry-level role, but through intentional strategy, continuous development, and courageous career moves, all within the same organization!

She climbed the ladder to executive leadership. In this episode, we talk about what it takes to grow where you're planted, the power of creating your own opportunities, and why having fun at work is more than just a bonus.

We explore the mindset shifts needed for sustainable success, how to stay energized in long-term roles, and why mentorship remains a critical pillar in career advancement.

Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode:

• How to grow your career without switching companies

• The value of short-, medium-, and long-term career planning

• Why creating leadership opportunities can be more powerful than waiting for them

• How to navigate challenges with resilience and stay motivated along the way

Whether you're early in your career, redefining your path, or reaching for your next leadership goal, Amanda’s story will show you how strategy, paired with heart, can truly change everything.

🎧 Listen to more episodes on Spotify: ⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/1h9tlWvM22GeEKgfQdjMvl?si=01dabce90ea045db⁠⁠

🎧Listen & Follow on Apple:⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/career-conversations-with-ola/id1792185014⁠

📺 Watch the video podcast on YouTube:⁠⁠ https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLcwB_QLnp76KNYKH_l81ZhPAfcBRHKVYJ&si=jJEsJEo6GtSh-dwW⁠⁠

👋 Connect with Amanda Gilchrist on LinkedIn: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-gilchrist-957512b1/

In this episode of Career Conversations with Ola, I'm joined by Tobi Odunowo, an HR leader with a truly unique career journey.

What started as an unplanned exploration of a people development role at a student organization led Tobi down a purpose-driven path of growth, learning, and leadership.

Tobi opens up about the unexpected turns in his career and the valuable lessons he’s learned along the way.

Through candid insights, Tobi shares:

• How his unplanned entry into HR became the foundation of a purposeful career.
• The importance of continuous learning and adaptability in navigating career growth.
• Key leadership lessons that helped him overcome challenges and build resilience.
• The power of mentorship in guiding personal and professional development.

If you’re looking for inspiration on how to turn an unplanned career into a fulfilling path, or if you’re seeking advice on navigating transitions and building a purpose-driven career, this episode is for you.

Whether you're in HR, leadership, or looking to pivot in your career, Tobi’s story will motivate you to embrace your unique journey and grow with purpose.

Don’t forget to follow the channel and listen to other episodes for more career insights from leaders and professionals in various industries, only on Career Conversations with Ola!

Tune in to Listen:
📍 YouTube: Career Conversations with Ola on YouTube
📍 Spotify: Career Conversations on Spotify
📍 Apple Podcasts: Career Conversations on Apple Podcasts
📍 Amazon Music: Career Conversations on Amazon Music

Tobi's LinkedIn: Tobi Odunowo on LinkedIn

In this episode of Career Conversations with Ola, I'm joined by Alex Nazarevich, a leader in marketing and e-commerce, as he shares his incredible journey from an accidental marketer to a data-driven leader. Alex reveals the pivotal mindset shift that transformed his career and led him to embrace the power of data in shaping impactful marketing strategies.

Through candid insights, Alex discusses:

• How his unexpected entry into marketing became the start of an incredible journey.
• The importance of learning new things, staying adaptable, and continuously evolving in your career.
• Key leadership lessons for navigating challenges, especially in complex and competitive markets.
• The crucial role of mentorship and mindset in overcoming setbacks and creating lasting impact.

If you're looking for career inspiration, practical advice, or just want to hear a success story built on resilience and transformation, this episode is for you. Whether you’re in marketing, or leadership, or just curious about career pivots, Alex’s story will leave you motivated to take charge of your own journey.

Don’t forget to subscribe for more career insights from leaders in various industries, only on Career Conversations with Ola!

Tune in to Listen

📍 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗧𝘂𝗯𝗲: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLcwB_QLnp76KNYKH_l81ZhPAfcBRHKVYJ&si=_-c8V1Nw_EL-fxmy

📍𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆: https://open.spotify.com/show/1h9tlWvM22GeEKgfQdjMvl

📍𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/career-conversations-with-ola/id1792185014

📍 𝗔𝗺𝗮𝘇𝗼𝗻 𝗠𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗰: https://podcasters.amazon.com/podcasts/d5bc0afc-a731-42df-9c48-36a626b95b67

Alex's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexnazarevich/

In this episode of Career Conversations with Ola [CCO] Podcast, Dr. Archana Krishnan shares her inspiring journey from biotechnology to becoming a leading Business Intelligence architect.

If you’re looking for a boost in your career, mentorship insights, or fresh strategies to level up, this episode has everything you need!

Whether you're navigating career challenges, seeking advice on professional growth, or interested in breaking through the glass ceiling, Dr. Archana’s advice will provide you with the tools to succeed.

Tune in to hear Dr. Archana discuss:

• How mentorship can radically transform your career path
• The role of Business Intelligence in shaping today’s decision-making
• Actionable strategies for overcoming career hurdles and achieving professional growth

It’s time to take control of your career journey - don’t miss these powerful insights!

Listen now:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7vCnJPH4CsfQ85Ne7DgCRi?si=hATTDLyoTCuib_EmCOkdHQ&nd=1&dlsi=f37c9e6f773f4470 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/career-conversations-with-ola/id1792185014 Amazon Music: https://www.amazon.ca/arya/webplayer?asin=B0DVLZSWBW&useRelativeUrl=true&contentDeliveryType=PodcastEpisode&language=en_CA&initialCPLaunch=true&marketplaceId=A2CQZ5RBY40XE&amazonAsin=B0DTT8WJKN

Follow Careerzone by Ola for more career-boosting tips and stories from inspiring professionals who have made it happen.

Follow Dr. Archana on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-archana-k-24052862/

#CareerGrowth #BusinessIntelligence #Mentorship #CareerJourney #WomenInTech #CareerSuccess #Networking #ProfessionalDevelopment #SkillsDevelopment #ContinuousLearning #CareerTips #TechLeadership #GrowthMindset #PodcastForSuccess

In this first episode, I sit with Fisayo Folarin, a powerhouse project manager with over a decade of experience, to talk about the bold moves that shaped her career.

From stepping into leadership roles to navigating the challenges of building a career in a new country, Fisayo shares her journey with raw honesty and practical insights.

🔹 How did she take control of her career path?
🔹 What risks paid off the most?
🔹 What advice does she have for professionals looking to grow, pivot, or break barriers?

This episode is packed with real stories, actionable strategies, and the motivation you need to take charge of your career.

🎬 Watch the full episode on YouTube! 👉 https://youtu.be/BU_pqJAYOgI?si=YIUQoecI-8o1Y4Uy

#CareerConversationsWithOla #Podcast #BoldMoves #CareerGrowth #Leadership #Mentorship

Welcome to Career Conversations with Ola! I’m Ola, and every week, I’ll be sitting down with incredible professionals who will share their journeys, insights, and the lessons they’ve learned along the way. Together, we’ll dive into career growth, personal development, and the real-world challenges and opportunities we all face in the professional world. You’ll hear firsthand stories, practical advice, and actionable tips to help you navigate your own career path—whether you’re stepping into leadership, figuring out your next move, or breaking through barriers. 🎧 The first episode drops January 31, 2025 – be sure to check out the trailer for a sneak peek! Let’s get started and shape the career you’ve always dreamed of!

Episode 12 of Career Conversations with Ola features Nadine Niba, a senior manager in technology risk advisory, resilient leader, and passionate advocate for mentorship, inclusive leadership, and diversity

Nadine’s career journey started with a push from her father into accounting, but it was her personal drive, excellence in every role, and openness to guidance that helped her rise through the ranks. In this episode, we talk about what it means to show up well even when the path ahead feels uncertain, and why advocacy, not just hard work, is critical for growth.

We unpack the real pressure that comes with leadership, the power of doing your best in the present, and how mentorship and sponsorship can transform careers — especially for underrepresented professionals navigating fast-changing industries.

Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode:

• Why resilience matters more than confidence in leadership

• The role of mentorship and sponsorship in career acceleration

• How to position yourself for growth through everyday excellence

• Why your past experiences are preparing you for what's next

Whether you're feeling stuck, stepping into something new, or trying to lead with more impact, this conversation will remind you that the journey is yours and you’re more ready than you think.

🎧 Listen to more episodes on Spotify:⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/1h9tlWvM22GeEKgfQdjMvl?si=01dabce90ea045db⁠

📺 Watch the video podcast on YouTube:⁠https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLcwB_QLnp76KNYKH_l81ZhPAfcBRHKVYJ&si=jJEsJEo6GtSh-dwW⁠

👋 Connect with Nadine Niba on LinkedIn:⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/mankanadine/

Episode 11 of Career Conversations with Ola had me seated with the amazing Ola Adebayo, a global payroll expert, bold career builder, and passionate advocate for growth through challenge.

Ola's career journey is anything but linear. With a background in science and a start in banking, she found her way into payroll and never looked back. In this episode, we talk about what it means to say yes to unfamiliar opportunities, how soft skills shape leadership, and why your career should evolve with you.

We discussed the balancing act of technical skills and people skills in the current world of work. Ola also shares her thoughts on networking, navigating international compliance, and staying motivated in an AI-driven world.

Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode:

• Why embracing challenges is key to growing your career

• How soft skills unlock leadership opportunities

• Tips for staying motivated and relevant in an evolving industry

• Why mentorship is good, but sponsorship can be game-changing

Whether you are navigating a career pivot, stepping into leadership, or figuring out your next move, this episode will leave you inspired to lean into growth even when it feels uncertain.

🎧 Listen to more episodes on Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/show/1h9tlWvM22GeEKgfQdjMvl?si=01dabce90ea045db

📺 Watch the video podcast on YouTube:
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLcwB_QLnp76KNYKH_l81ZhPAfcBRHKVYJ&si=jJEsJEo6GtSh-dwW

👋 Connect with Ola Adebayo on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/olayideadebayo/

In this special Episode 10 of Career Conversations with Ola, I'm privileged to sit down with Jane Helbrecht, a leadership development coach & expert, keynote speaker, TEDx speaker, and founder of Uplift Engagement.

Jane shares her powerful career journey from HR to entrepreneurship, offering key insights into leadership development, career growth, and building trust within teams.

In this episode, we explore the true meaning of leadership and why authenticity and self-reflection are critical to professional growth.

Jane’s story serves as a reminder that career development is an ongoing journey that requires curiosity, risk-taking, and a commitment to personal growth.

Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode:

• How to build trust as a leader and within teams.

• Why leadership is important, whether or not you hold a formal title.

• How to stay curious and reflective throughout your career.

• Practical advice on career development and navigating career transitions.

• Why staying true to your values is essential for long-term career success.

Whether you're looking to step into leadership, pivot your career, or simply grow in your current role, this episode offers actionable advice for anyone on a professional journey.

Be sure to connect with Jane: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janehelbrecht/

Sign up for Jane's newsletter on leadership: https://www.upliftengagement.com/

Check out more episodes on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1h9tlWvM22GeEKgfQdjMvl?si=01dabce90ea045db

Watch episodes of CCO podcast on Youtube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLcwB_QLnp76KNYKH_l81ZhPAfcBRHKVYJ&si=jJEsJEo6GtSh-dwW