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Explore every episode of the podcast Career Unicorns - Spark Your Joy

Dive into the complete episode list for Career Unicorns - Spark Your Joy. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.

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TitlePub. DateDuration
The Power of Enough: Choosing More Mommy Over More Money, Investing In Yourself, and Being A Leader In AI Ethics With Irene Liu (Ep. 199)17 Dec 202500:48:13

 

What happens when a high-powered executive, responsible for scaling multi-billion dollar companies, is asked by her 10-year-old: "What does that money actually mean to us?"

 

In this deeply insightful episode, we sit down with Irene Liu, founder of Hypergrowth GC and former Chief Financial and Legal Officer at Hopin. Irene shares her journey from the Department of Justice to the front lines of the AI revolution, where she now advises the California Senate on AI safety.

 

We explore the "Politics of the C-Suite," the necessity of high EQ in leadership, and why Irene decided to step out of the "survival mode" of corporate life to define what "enough" looks like for her family.

 

In this episode, we dive deep into:

  • Resilience born from crisis: how working in finance in Manhattan during 9/11 shaped Irene's mental fortitude.

  • Navigating layoffs with humanity: whether you are the one being let go, the one left with survivor's guilt, or the executive making the difficult calls.

  • The art of the pivot: effective strategies for transitioning from public service and government roles into the private sector.

  • The AI frontier: a sobering look at the "Empire of AI," the global race for innovation, and the urgent need for safeguards to protect children and vulnerable populations.

  • The path to the C-Suite: the two key qualities you need to transition from "just a lawyer" to a business leader.

  • "More Mommy" vs. "More Money": how to evaluate career choices through the lens of family values and the "seasons of life."

  • Owning your growth: Why you shouldn't let your employer drive your career, and the importance of self-investment and building a genuine community.

 

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Disclaimer:  Irene would like our listeners to know that her views expressed in this podcast are her own and do not represent those of any referenced organizations.

Rewiring Your Brain for Joy: Heal People-Pleasing, Overcome Imposter Syndrome & Own Your Voice with Susan Britton (Ep. 198)10 Dec 202500:50:10

 

Are you ready to stop living for others and start living for you?

 

In this powerful episode, Susan Britton, Founder & President of the Academies for Neuroscience Coaching, Inc., explores how our brains hold onto old behaviors like people-pleasing and self-doubt. Susan has 25 years of leadership in coaching and coaching education, and has supported 1,000s of coaches across six continents to earn their ICF credential.  She shares the neuro-informed strategies you need to embrace all of yourself, shift from the "Red Zone" (fight/flight) to inner peace, and start listening to your true voice to build your dream life and career.

 

We dive deep into:

  • How people-pleasing is a survival response, and the science behind changing it.

  • Leveraging neuroplasticity to rewrite old, self-limiting narratives that hold your career back.

  • Why embracing small, necessary pain (Hormesis!) is the key to massive growth and impact.

  • Giving voice to your "shadow energy" from a kind and compassionate place.

  • Recognizing the signs of burnout and strategies for a compassionate recovery.

 

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Lessons from Bad Bosses: Navigating Workplace Bullying, Microaggressions & DEI With Mita Mallick, WSJ Bestselling Author & DEI Leader (Ep. 189)24 Sep 202500:48:19

 

What if a childhood trauma followed you into the boardroom? In this powerful episode, Wall Street Journal bestselling author and DEI leader Mita Mallick shares the story of her long hair being burned as a "joke" when she was a little girl. She thought bullying ended on the playground, but learned the painful truth that bullies follow you into Corporate America.

Mita, a top LinkedIn Voice and contributor for Harvard Business Review, has built her brand by tackling tough topics head-on. She joins us to share insights from her two bestselling books, including her latest, The Devil Emails at Midnight: What Good Leaders Can Learn From Bad Bosses.

Key Takeaways:

  • How to spot a toxic boss and understand their impact on your career.

  • The surprising link between being a bad boss and becoming a great leader.

  • How to handle microaggressions like having your name changed by colleagues and reclaim your identity.

  • Strategies for navigating pregnancy discrimination and theft of your ideas in the workplace.

  • The secret to building a culture of integrity and accountability.

  • Practical ways to recover from burnout and find work-life balance.

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How to get your first in-house job and advocate for DEI with Lisa Mak, Senior Employment Counsel at Flynn Group (Ep. 188)17 Sep 202500:38:38

 

Are you looking to make a career pivot from private practice to your first legal in-house job? 

 

But you're struggling because most employers already want someone who has in-house experience?

 

Then this episode with Lisa Mak is for you.  Lisa Mak shares her journey from how she went from a plaintiff-side litigator to landing her dream job as Senior Employment Counsel at Flynn Group, the largest restaurant franchise operator in the U.S., with a portfolio of brands including Applebee's, Wendy's, Taco Bell, and Panera. Lisa also serves as the Northern California Regional Governor for the National Asian Pacific American Bar Association (NAPABA) and also served as the President of the Asian American Bar Association of the Greater Bay Area in 2022.

 

In this episode, we dive deep into:

  • The key strategies you can use to help you make a career pivot.

  • What you can do to cultivate a growth mindset to help you push through a challenging job market.  

  • How you can get clarity about your values and advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in challenging times.

  • What you can do to recover from burnout and have hope during dark times.

 

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Career Success & Visibility for Women of Color With Cynthia Pong, CEO Of Embrace Change (Ep. 187)10 Sep 202500:43:05

 

Join us for an empowering conversation with Cynthia Pong, the award-winning founder of Embrace Change. A Forbes contributor and LinkedIn Top Voice, Cynthia is a leading expert on career advancement for women of color. Her award-winning work has been featured in HBR, Forbes, The Atlantic, and on major networks like NBC, CBS, and NPR. Her book, Don't Stay in Your Lane: The Career Change Guide for Women of Color, is a must-read for anyone seeking to advance their career. 

In this episode, we dive deep into how to navigate systemic barriers, leverage your unique strengths, and build a career that truly empowers you.

Key Takeaways:

  • Navigating systemic racism and barriers women of color face.

  • Understanding how the "Model Minority" Myth to pit people of color against each other.

  • Managing economic realities in a world of tariffs and AI.

  • Creating visibility and a personal brand.

  • Having agency in your career by telling your story.

  • Setting healthy boundaries and protecting your energy to thrive in challenging times.

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The Confidence Blueprint: Key Strategies for Women in Leadership with Sheena Yap Chan, Wall Street Journal Bestselling Author (Ep. 186)03 Sep 202500:44:08

 

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Sheena Yap Chan, a keynote speaker, an award-winning podcast host, and author of the Wall Street Journal Bestselling author of The Tao Of Self Confidence and Bridging The Confidence Gap. Sheena shares her personal journey, from overcoming a lack of representation as a young Filipino immigrant to becoming a best-selling author. This episode provides a powerful roadmap for any woman looking to build confidence and take on a leadership role.

Join us as we explore the blueprint to empowered leadership, including:

  • The power of representation and how it shapes our career paths and self-perception.

  • Overcoming imposter syndrome, a common struggle that affects a staggering number of women in the workplace.

  • The urgency for women in leadership and the systemic barriers we face today.

  • Why self-promotion is a vital tool, not a "tacky" one, for women seeking visibility and growth.

  • Taking bold action and saying "yes" to opportunities, even when you only feel 50% ready.

  • Navigating the unique burden and expectations placed on women of color in professional spaces.

  • Using your voice to create purpose and drive meaningful change in your community and beyond.

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Thriving in corporate America as a Black man and first-generation college grad with Jaymon Ballew, Senior Counsel at The Major League Soccer (Ep. 185)06 Jun 202500:48:13

 

This week, I'm so excited to share a podcast with one of my former clients, Jaymon Ballew.  Jaymon is Senior Counsel for The Major League Soccer and a first-generation college and professional graduate.  He shares his experiences navigating corporate America as a Black man, the importance of understanding the unwritten rules of the professional world, and how our work together helped him get clarity and land his dream job in sports. 

 

In this podcast, we do a deep dive into:

  • How to reconnect with your true passions when you feel lost.

  • How to build support networks and mentors who can provide guidance and validation and help you navigate the unwritten rules of corporate America.  

  • Why preparing and doing mock interviews is critical to success.  

  • How to transition from law firm practice to your first in-house role.

  • Why it's important to have an open mindset to pursuing opportunities even if it means taking a different career path.

  • What you can do to confidently negotiate your worth.

  • How you can prepare to navigate predominantly White spaces when you're a Black man.

  • The importance of prioritizing mental health and how to recover from burnout.

 

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AANHPI Mental Wellness: Unpacking Workplace Microaggressions, Healing Racial Trauma, and Building Self Worth with Dr. Noel Ramirez, Founder & Director of Mango Tree Counseling & Consulting (Ep. 184)28 May 202500:52:55

 

In honor of AANHPI Heritage Month and Mental Health Awareness Month, join us for an inspiring conversation with Dr. Noel Ramirez, Founder & Director of Mango Tree Counseling & Consulting, an AAPI mental health resource center in Philadelphia.  This episode delves into the unspoken realities of intergenerational trauma, racial microaggressions and macroaggressions, exploring the complex relationship between work, identity, and self-worth for Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders.  Dr. Ramirez shares powerful insights on how cultural narratives around labor and gratitude impact mental health, the struggle to find language for self-care and boundaries in Asian languages, and the vital importance of witnessing and validating shared experiences.  Discover pathways to belonging, resilience, and finding harmony in a world that often questions our "enoughness."

Key topics covered:

  • Navigating racial microaggressions, betrayal trauma, and toxic workplace dynamics for AANHPI individuals and communities.

  • Dissecting the "good enough to work, but not good enough to cultivate" narrative for Asian Americans.

  • Understanding compulsive behaviors rooted in societal expectations and "toxic indebtedness" within AANHPI communities.

  • Examining the absence of self-care and boundary language in some Asian cultures and its impact on well-being.

  • Recognizing the critical impact of racial violence and the power of community healing for Asian Americans.

  • Challenging the "not Asian enough" or "not American enough" identity struggle and cultivating wholeness.

  • Addressing mental health disparities and the vital need for culturally sensitive mental healthcare.

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Protecting LGBTQ+ rights, marriage equality, and civil rights with Stuart Gaffney (Ep. 183)21 May 202500:46:43

 

Join Stuart Gaffney, a leading activist and advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and social justice, in an illuminating conversation that traces his journey into activism. This episode explores the vital intersection of education and advocacy, the enduring historical and contemporary significance of marriage equality, and the indispensable power of community solidarity in today's challenging political climate.

Stuart offers invaluable insights into the ongoing necessity of vigilance in protecting civil rights, highlighting how individual actions are the bedrock of monumental social change. Discover actionable strategies to cultivate resilience, find genuine hope amidst adversity, and understand how every person can become an "everyday hero" in the relentless pursuit of justice and equality.

This podcast is a must-listen for anyone deeply invested in LGBTQ+ advocacy, civil rights, human rights, political activism, social justice movements, education reform, community organizing, and the future of marriage equality.

In this episode, we dive deep into:

  • Stuart Gaffney's personal journey and impactful activism in LGBTQ+ rights and marriage equality.

  • Analyzing the profound impact of the current political climate on social justice and human rights.

  • The critical role of education and research in fueling and sustaining the fight for social justice.

  • Exploring the powerful parallel journeys of interracial marriage and LGBTQ+ marriage, and their shared fight for equality.

  • Understanding the broad implications of the current administration's policies on fundamental Civil Rights and human rights.

  • In-depth reflections on the Supreme Court's role and the future of LGBTQ+ rights and protections.

  • Practical strategies for cultivating optimism and finding hope amidst fear and uncertainty in activism.

  • The undeniable power of community and collective action in advancing equality and justice.

  • Effective practices for grounding and maintaining resilience in demanding social justice advocacy.

  • How you can become an everyday hero and actively contribute to the fight for justice and equality.

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Unlearning Silence: Effective strategies for women and BIPOC leaders to find their voice, negotiate healthy boundaries, and build inclusive workplaces with Elaine Lin Hering (Ep. 182)14 May 202500:52:47

 

Feeling unheard in the workplace? Join Elaine Lin Hering, a world renowned author, speaker, and coach for women and people of color in executive leadership within majority white spaces, as she unpacks the power of unlearning silence. Drawing on her extensive experience with organizations like Google, Nike, and Harvard Law School, Elaine delves into the crucial connection between communication, negotiation, and inclusive leadership. Discover practical strategies to find your voice, establish healthy boundaries, navigate power dynamics, and cultivate truly inclusive workplace cultures where everyone can thrive.


In this insightful episode, we dive deep into:

  • Practical strategies for setting boundaries and navigating power dynamics at work.

  • Why well-intentioned leaders may inadvertently silence their teams and how to foster open dialogue.

  • Cultivating critical thinking, clear decision-making, and reclaiming your agency at work.

  • Recognizing privilege, challenging the status quo, and questioning workplace assumptions.

  • The unique challenges faced by women of color when asserting themselves and actionable allyship strategies.

  • Why silence is not a safe strategy and the importance of speaking up for yourself and your values.

  • Building sustainable work practices, finding joy, and defining personal success.


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Asian American Empowerment: Fighting anti-Asian hate, creating representation, and building community with Dave Lu, Taiwanese American Entrepreneur, Venture Capitalist, and Activist (Ep. 181)07 May 202500:39:06

 

In honor of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month, we chat with the inspiring Dave Lu.  Dave is a Taiwanese American entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and activist.  Dave shares his remarkable journey growing up as the child of Taiwanese immigrants to now being the Founder & Managing Partner at Hyphen Capital,  Co-Founder & President of Expo, and Co-Founder, Stand with Asian Americans.  From his experiences as a child of Taiwanese immigrants and a tech industry veteran to his powerful advocacy against anti-Asian hate, Dave's story is one of resilience and empowerment. 

Dave recently produced the Emmy-winning documentary short 38 at the Garden about NBA player Jeremy Lin, which was acquired by HBO.  Dave sits on the advisory board of the Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center and the Asia Pacific Fund.  Dave received his bachelor degree in finance from the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School and his MBA from the Stanford Graduate School of Business.  

In this episode, we dive deep into:

  • How growing up as a Taiwanese American impacts your career and life choices.

  • The rise of anti-Asian hate crimes during the pandemic, and the importance of telling our stories (as seen on the Wall Street Journal).

  • How the courage to speak up and organize led to the founding of Stand With Asian Americans.

  • The power of representation in sports and media, including Jeremy Lin's story.  

  • Challenges and opportunities for Asian American founders in venture capital and technology.

  • Strategies for building your own opportunities and taking control of your narrative.

  • The power of storytelling in fostering understanding and driving social change.

  • The importance of creating inclusive environments and supporting diverse founders, especially women founders.

  • Finding purpose and joy in the face of challenges.

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Title: Secrets to thriving in a challenging job market with Tammy Dain, Founder of Rabble (Ep. 180)30 Apr 202500:38:43

 

Tammy Dain has over 10+ years of experience in the talent acquisition and human resources space from the tech, legal and higher education industries.  Tammy is the Co-Founder of a boutique staffing company.  Prior to this, she was the Senior Talent Acquisition Consultant with Axiom Law, where she was for almost 7 years as their Director of Talent Acquisition in the West region.

 

In this episode, we dive deep into:

  • Learning strategies for landing great job offers in the current challenging job market.

  • Understanding the foundational importance of work ethic in today's job market.

  • Negotiating effectively for an increase in salary and other compensation factors.

  • Examining the impact of AI in recruiting and ethical AI.

  • Prioritizing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in hiring practices even if your company has scaled back its programs.  

  • Exploring strategies for re-entering the work-force after a long career break.

 

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Decolonizing Healing: Reclaiming Our Narrative, Resisting Erasure And Healing Trauma With Dr. Grace Poon (Ep. 197)19 Nov 202500:45:51

 

Welcome back, Career Unicorns! This week, we are honored to host the incredible Dr. Grace Poon Ghaffari: a motherscholar practitioner, proud daughter of Chinese immigrants, and embodied healer.


Grace is an Assistant Professor at San Jose State University, where she focuses on healing and harm among student survivors of sexual and relationship violence, examining how these experiences are intertwined with broader systems of oppression.


In this deep and vital conversation, we discuss why the traditional justice system often fails to be a source of healing, the critical importance of naming violence as it truly is (especially anti-Asian women hate), and how to move toward decolonizing our own healing experiences. Grace shares her wisdom on tuning into ancestral knowledge, recognizing the validity of traditional wisdom, and finding sustainable ways to resist the exhausting cycles of systemic harm and microaggressions.


Key Takeaways: 

  • The Healing Gap: Why victims often don't find the justice system to be a source of healing, and the importance of acknowledging harm.
  • Revictimization: The harmful experience of unhelpful police and the dismissal of non-stereotypical victims of violence.
  • The Fight To Name Harm: Connecting the Atlanta spa shootings, anti-Asian women hate, and the necessity of uplifting marginalized narratives that are often wildly dismissed 
  • Internalized Dismissal: How Asian women's experiences of violence are often minimized ("that just happens to Asian women"), and the role of purity culture in the Asian cultural context.
  • Decolonizing Healing: Recognizing the positives of Western medicine alongside the profound knowledge and wisdom of our ancestors, and how our relationship to the body and land are part of the healing ecosystem.
  • Ancestors As Researchers: Tuning into your own lineage and recognizing that your parents and community have been doing research all along, even if it wasn't recognized by traditional science.
  • The Tiring Nature of Resistance: The layers of trauma, microaggressions, and the importance of finding ways to be sustainable and be in the resistance for the long haul.


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Breaking the glass ceiling in finance and tech with Constance Sng, Chief of Capital Formation and Investor Relations at Alphemy Capital (Ep. 179)23 Apr 202500:37:54

 

Join us for an insightful conversation with Constance Sng, Chief of Capital Formation and Investor Relations at Alphemy Capital, as she shares her remarkable journey navigating the intersection of finance and technology. 

 

Constance reveals how she successfully transitioned from traditional finance to the dynamic world of fintech and blockchain, built a thriving network after moving from Singapore to New York, and broke through the glass ceiling to achieve leadership success. Constance is the Chief of Capital Formation and Investor Relations at Alphemy Capital, and was the Global Head of Capital Formation at Abra, the Chief of Capital Strategy at Hudson Cove Capital, and the Head of Distribution and Executive Director of Credit Suisse Asset Management.  She has been serving as the Chair of the Advisory Board for The Investment Diversity Exchange (TIDE) since 2020.  

 

In this episode, we dive deep into:

  • Successful career transitions: learn actionable strategies for leveraging your existing skills to make impactful career pivots into exciting new fields like fintech.

  • Navigating leadership as an Asian woman: gain valuable insights on how to challenge the status quo, advocate for yourself, and excel as an Asian woman in leadership roles.

  • The power of strategic networking: discover the secrets to building meaningful and mutually supportive professional communities, especially when navigating new environments.

  • Leveraging mentorship and sponsorship: understand how to identify, cultivate, and leverage mentorship and sponsorship relationships to accelerate your career growth.

  • Championing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI): explore practical approaches to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion within changing organizational structures.

  • Firsthand finance and tech insights: benefit from Constance's extensive experience and unique perspective as a leader thriving in both the finance and technology industries.

  • Building career resilience: recognize the critical role of resilience in overcoming obstacles and adapting to the ever-evolving landscape of the modern workplace.

 

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America's Secret War in Laos: U.S. role in UXO contamination and responsibility for humanitarian aid with Danae Hendrickson, Chief of Mission Advancement and Communications at Legacies of War (Ep. 178)16 Apr 202500:48:11

 

In honor of Lao New year, we have a special episode featuring Danae Hendrickson, Chief of Mission Advancement and Communications at Legacies of War.  Danae shares her journey as a Lao American and her work with Legacies of War to address the devastating impact of unexploded ordnance (UXO) in Laos caused by the U.S.'s Secret War in Laos and its secret bombing campaign.  Danae's family history as refugees from Laos deeply informs her advocacy for survivors and for greater U.S. responsibility in clearing UXO.  The episode highlights the ongoing humanitarian crisis caused by the secret bombing of Laos during the Vietnam War, the challenges posed by funding freezes, and the importance of remembering this history.  This conversation emphasizes the importance of community led advocacy, historical awareness, and finding hope amidst the legacies of war in Southeast Asia.

 

Key Takeaways:

  • America's Secret War in Laos and its secret bombing campaign dropping over 2 million tons of bombs on Laos between 1964 and 1973.

  • The U.S.'s moral obligation to clear unexploded ordinances left by its secret bombing campaign that's killing innocent children today.

  • How U.S. Foreign Aid is provided and why America should be held accountable and take responsibility to right its past wrongs.

  • Legacies of War's mission to support community led advocacy and engage elected officials to continue to support the clearing of UXOs.

  • The detrimental impact of funding freezes, including USAID, to local communities who are continuing to be harmed by the U.S.'s war campaign.

  • Historical commemorations and education to ensure that the legacies of war are not forgotten.

 

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Navigating Ethical Tech & Career Integrity With Jeanne Sheahan, Ex-Meta Senior Director of Global Legal Privacy Compliance and Executive Career Coach (Ep. 177)09 Apr 202500:51:01

 

Are you wrestling with ethical dilemmas in your job? Feeling misaligned with your company's values? 

In this powerful episode, we speak with Jeanne Sheahan, the Founder of Jeanne Sheahan Executive Life Coaching and a former Senior Director of Global Legal Privacy Compliance at Meta. Jeanne shares her firsthand experience navigating complex ethical landscapes in big tech and provides actionable insights for making courageous career decisions rooted in your personal integrity.

As a former Meta executive who built and led a global privacy team, Jeanne understands the pressures and ethical challenges within the tech world. Now, she leverages her extensive experience coaching seasoned executives and rising stars at companies like Amazon, Google, and Microsoft to help you take control of your career and build a more fulfilling, values-driven professional life. Jeanne also shares her inspiring journey as a first-generation college student who rose to the highest levels of the tech industry, offering valuable lessons on navigating corporate culture and advocating for change.

In this episode, you'll learn how to:

  • Identify your core ethical values and ensure they align with your workplace.

  • Recognize red flags and navigate ethically challenging situations in tech.

  • Understand how creating a fear based work environment leads to breakdown in trust and mental and physical health issues.

  • Develop the courage to prioritize your integrity, even if it means making difficult career choices.

  • Strategically plan your exit if your current role compromises your values.

  • Build a career that truly reflects who you are and what you stand for.

  • Overcome bias and imposter syndrome on your path to leadership.

  • Advocate for more ethical and inclusive workplaces.

  • Set healthy boundaries to protect your well-being and values.

  • Find and cultivate supportive communities within the tech industry.

  • Become a more authentic and impactful leader.

  • The critical role of male allies in fostering inclusion and sharing power.

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Black Representation, Employment Discrimination, and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) with Tiffany Obeng, Lawyer, Change-maker and Children's Book Author (Ep. 176)02 Apr 202500:47:43

 

Disclaimer:  Tiffany Obeng would like our listeners to know that the views expressed in this podcast are her own and my own views, and not that of any referenced organizations.  This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. It is not intended to create an attorney-client relationship, and you should consult with a qualified attorney for advice specific to your situation.

Tiffany Obeng is a lawyer, a change-maker, and a children's book author on a mission to tackle diversity in the workplace. Seeing the daunting statistics highlighting the lack of diversity in law, particularly for Black women, inspired Tiffany to spend nearly 15 years fighting for equality in the workplace, from the trenches of employment law to providing strategic advice in higher education. But she realized the fight needed to start earlier. Now, she's using the power of storytelling to write children's books to shape a future where diversity isn't just a buzzword, it's a reality. 

 

Key Takeaways:

  • Understanding employment law & discrimination: learn about the difficulties of proving discrimination, the importance of knowing your employment rights, and special protections you have as a government employee.

  • Black representation matters: discover how diverse children's books can inspire career exploration and foster inclusivity.

  • Combating toxic work environments: gain strategies for recognizing and addressing toxic workplaces and advocating for change.

  • Navigating job insecurity: receive practical advice for navigating job insecurity in today's economy.

  • The power of storytelling: explore how literature can drive social movements, promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, and empower future generations.

  • Corporate responsibility & diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI): understand how corporate responses to social movements impact workplace equality.

 

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Know your employment law rights: navigating layoffs, firings, and job insecurity with Bill Jhaveri-Weeks, Employment Lawyer and Founder of The Jhaveri-Weeks Firm, P.C. (Ep. 175)25 Mar 202500:49:01

 

William ("Bill") Jhaveri-Weeks is the founder of The Jhaveri-Weeks Firm, P.C., a law firm in San Francisco that focuses on representing employees in employment disputes.  The firm handles both individual cases and class actions, including harassment and discrimination.  Bill is a member of the Executive Committee of the Bar Association of San Francisco's Labor & Employment Section, was a partner at a class action firm, practiced in Big Law, and clerked for a federal Court of Appeals judge.  Bill graduated with honors from Yale College and NYU Law School.  

In this podcast, Bill and Samorn share advice for professionals navigating today's challenging job market.  They dive deep into:

  • Employment law: understanding your legal rights during layoffs, firings, and severance negotiations.

  • Career advice: strategies for career change and job satisfaction and fulfillment.

  • Job market: navigating the current tough job market.  

  • Lawyer happiness: aligning with your personal values, striving for well-being, and achieving work-life harmony.

  • Networking: building essential connections leading to mentorship and job opportunities.  

  • Legal advice: practical guidance for employees facing job insecurity and legal remedies to employers wrongly accusing you of poor performance.  

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Building Inclusive Democracy: Generational Trauma, Civil Rights & Legal Advocacy with Christopher Punongbayan, Executive Director of California ChangeLawyers (Ep. 174)18 Mar 202500:51:52

 

Join us for a profound conversation with Christopher Punongbayan, Executive Director of California ChangeLawyers, as he shares his compelling journey from navigating generational trauma and Asian American history to spearheading efforts for social justice and civil rights. Discover how ChangeLawyers is empowering the next generation of public interest lawyers, fostering community empowerment, and addressing critical issues such as defending DEI initiatives and striving for an inclusive democracy. This episode delves into the essential role of resilience, mindfulness, and overcoming self-doubt in driving lasting systemic change. Learn how to effectively invest in change makers and create a meaningful legacy by understanding your own narrative and committing to a more equitable future.

Key Takeaways:

  • Generational trauma: breaking the cycle and becoming good ancestors to those who follow us.

  • Civil rights & immigration: fighting for civil rights to protect diverse and marginalized communities.

  • Inclusive Democracy: working to create a more equitable justice system through grants, scholarships, and advocacy.

  • DEI advocacy: using strong advocacy to overcome the current attacks on DEI.

  • Taking action: recognizing the power of individual actions to drive social change.

  • Resilience and growth: Embracing resilience and mindfulness as an antidote to despair.

  • Overcoming self-doubt: strategies for overcoming imposter syndrome and internalized racism.

  • Legacy and impact: creating a positive legacy for future generations.

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Embracing Afro-Latina identity and implementing effective DEI strategies with Dr. Sofia B. Pertuz, PhD, Founder of Mainstream Insight (Ep. 173)11 Mar 202500:53:34

 

In this powerful episode, Dr. Sofia B. Pertuz, a leading workplace culture strategist and expert in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), shares her insightful experiences as an Afro-Latina woman navigating complex professional landscapes. Dr. Pertuz delves into the nuances of her identity, discussing the impact of colorism, intersectionality, and the ongoing struggles for representation. We explore the challenges faced by women of color in toxic work environments, emphasizing the critical importance of mental health, boundary setting, and self-care. Dr. Pertuz provides actionable strategies for career development, fostering supportive networks, and recognizing personal achievements. This conversation is essential for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of DEI, navigate workplace challenges, and cultivate a culture of empowerment.

Key topics covered:

  • Afro-Latina identity: understanding the complexities of race, ethnicity, and representation.

  • Workplace DEI: addressing pushback, systemic issues, and the ongoing need for organizational transformation.

  • Colorism & intersectionality: examining the impact of these factors on personal and professional experiences.

  • Toxic work environments: strategies for navigating disrespect, setting boundaries, and creating escape plans.

  • Mental health & self-care: prioritizing well-being, managing burnout, and the importance of rest.

  • Career development: empowering women of color, recognizing achievements, and building supportive networks.

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Toxic workplace survival: Using DEI to combat gaslighting & betrayal with Jaya Mallik (Ep. 172)04 Mar 202500:50:31

 

Given the mass layoffs and firings by both the government and corporations, we speak with Jaya Mallik, the founder of Jaya Mallik Coaching & Consulting and.  She formerly led DEI efforts at Meta, Amazon, and Tandem Diabetes Care and provides actionable insights on using Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) principles to navigate and heal from toxic workplace environments. We explore the devastating impacts of corporate betrayal, gaslighting, and systemic discrimination, particularly for women of color. We also discuss the importance of leveraging DEI as a tool for knowing your self-worth, setting boundaries, and finding community support. 

Key takeaways:  

  • Combatting toxic workplaces: Learn to identify and counteract gaslighting, manipulation, and discriminatory behaviors using DEI frameworks.

  • Healing from betrayal: Strategies for processing the emotional fallout of layoffs, corporate betrayals, and workplace trauma.

  • Setting powerful boundaries: Practical techniques for establishing and maintaining healthy boundaries to protect your self-worth and mental health.

  • DEI as a protective tool: How to utilize DEI principles to advocate for yourself and others in hostile work environments.

  • Building resilient communities: The importance of finding and fostering supportive communities to combat isolation and promote collective healing.

  • Ethical consumerism: How to align your spending with your values and hold corporations accountable for their actions.

  • Mental wellness & resistance: Strategies for prioritizing mental health and finding joy as a form of resistance against systemic oppression.

  • Navigating job market instability: Actionable steps for finding values-aligned employment and thriving in challenging economic times.

  • Values driven living: Discover how to live a life that is in alignment with your personal values.

  • Joy as resistance: Understand that joy and rest are essential acts of resistance against oppressive systems.

Connect with us:

Litigating for educational equity and civil rights with Antonio Ingram, Senior Counsel at the NAACP Legal Defense Fund (Ep. 171)25 Feb 202500:49:37

 

In honor of Black History Month, we speak with Antonio Lavalle Ingram II, Senior Counsel at the NAACP Legal Defense Fund and descendant of enslaved African Americans. Antonio's work focuses on vital educational equity cases. He shares his inspiring journey from a working-class background to Yale, Berkeley Law, and prestigious clerkships, including for Chief Judge Roger L. Gregory. His Fulbright in Malawi further shaped his global perspective.

This compelling conversation explores:

  • Black history in action: Antonio's family history and its impact on his dedication to justice.

  • Educational equity: The ongoing fight against systemic barriers and current legal challenges.

  • Navigating legal spaces: Experiences in predominantly white environments and the power of mentorship.

  • Generational trauma and resilience: Understanding its effects and finding hope amidst adversity.

  • Key civil rights cases: Insights into litigation, judicial bias, and protecting vulnerable communities.

  • Activism and self-care: Strategies for sustainable activism and overcoming imposter syndrome.

  • The importance of belonging: Creating spaces for marginalized individuals.

Antonio's story exemplifies the strength and perseverance of Black Americans in the pursuit of equality. Join us to celebrate Black History Month and learn about the crucial work being done to advance civil rights.

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From adversity to advocacy: A biracial Black and White adoptee's journey to social justice leadership with Luke Liss Pro Bono Partner at Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati (Ep. 170)18 Feb 202500:52:21

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are solely those of Luke Liss and the host, and do not represent the views of any referenced organizations.

 

Join us for a powerful conversation with Luke Liss, Pro Bono Partner at Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati, as he shares his inspiring journey from adversity to advocacy.  Episode 170 delves into Luke's personal experiences as a biracial (Black and White) adoptee, his path to becoming a social justice leader, and his vision for pro bono work.

 

Luke opens up about the impact of his unique background on his sense of belonging and purpose. He recounts his challenges, including almost dropping out of high school, and how he overcame them to graduate from Stanford Law School.  He emphasizes the crucial role of mentorship in his success and shares insights on fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the workplace that goes beyond mere compliance.

 

This episode explores:

 

  • Overcoming adversity: Luke's story of resilience and how he transformed challenges into motivation.

  • The impact of adoption and racial identity: Luke's reflections on his personal journey as a biracial adoptee and its influence on his advocacy work.

  • The power of mentorship: How early mentorship shaped his path to success and the importance of finding mentors.

  • Pro bono and social justice leadership: Luke's journey to becoming Pro Bono Partner at a top Am Law 50 law firm and his passion for social justice.

  • Career development and leadership: Tips for positioning yourself for leadership roles and confidently asking for what you deserve.

 

Tune in to hear Luke's remarkable story of resilience, leadership, and advocacy, and gain valuable insights on making a difference in the world.

 

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Breaking Free From Hustle Culture: How to Leave Prestige, Redefine Success, and Build Your Dream Career with Ann Sheu (Ep. 196)12 Nov 202500:47:03

As a former lawyer, business expert, and founder of Mpowered Families, Ann Sheu has gone through her own journey of achieving society's definition of success only to realize it wasn't her own. She uses her unique background to help high-achieving leaders move past the "hustle culture" and design a career and a life that is deeply rooted in personal alignment.

 

In this episode of Career Unicorns - Spark Your Joy, we tackle the pressure to prioritize prestige and money over happiness.

 

Key Career Strategies You'll Learn:

  • How to Pivot: The steps to take when you realize the hustle culture you've been chasing is leading you to live someone else's definition of success.

  • The Value Test: A practical framework for defining your "no matter what values" to instantly guide your biggest career and life decisions.

  • Silence the Critics: Strategies for managing the pressure from professional networks who don't understand why you would leave a "prestigious" career for happiness.

  • Build Your Aligned Life: How to move past external expectations and successfully design a life and career that "feels good" and honors who you truly are.

  • Conflict Resolution: How to navigate friction when your professional and personal values clash, and gain the clarity needed for intentional decision-making.

  • The Power of No: How to gain the confidence and strategies needed to say "no" to opportunities and responsibilities that don't align with your values.

  • Two-Parent Balance: Essential insights into addressing parental responsibilities and career goals in two-parent working households, focusing on equitable solutions.

 

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Breaking Barriers: A Black & Vietnamese Woman's Journey to Chief Legal Counsel with Michelle Trong Perrin-Steinberg, Chief Legal Counsel of Export Control | Sanctions, Americas at SAP America (Ep. 169)11 Feb 202500:44:23

 

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Michelle Trong Perrin-Steinberg, Chief Legal Counsel of Export Control | Sanctions, Americas at SAP America. Michelle shares her remarkable journey as a Black and Vietnamese woman navigating the legal field, from her early experiences to her current leadership role.

Before SAP, Michelle honed her expertise at Deloitte's Global Trade Advisory Practice Group and major aerospace and defense companies like Boeing. She's deeply committed to fostering inclusion and serves on the Advisory Board of Women, Influence, Power and the Law, and the Executive Board of the Syracuse University Law Alumni Association Board. As a founding member of the Syracuse University College of Law Inclusion Network, she champions law students of color, especially first-generation students, through mentorship and skills training.

In this episode, Michelle opens up about:

  • Breaking the Mold: The unique challenges and triumphs of being a "first" in her department.

  • Navigating Career Transitions: Strategies for building a successful career in the specialized field of Export Control and Sanctions.

  • Leading with Purpose: How prioritizing the greater good can fuel career advancement.

  • Building Your Tribe: The power of authentic connection, mentorship, and creating supportive communities.

  • Speaking Up & Doing Right: Repairing past missteps and fostering a culture of accountability.

  • Values-Driven Leadership: Staying true to your principles and building inclusive environments.

  • "Kindly, Michelle": The story behind Michelle's book and the valuable lessons she shares about her path to leadership. (Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and other booksellers.)

Tune in to hear Michelle's powerful story of resilience, leadership, and the importance of creating a more inclusive legal world.

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Universal Legal Representation: Fighting Poverty, Homelessness, & Injustice with Adrian Tirtanadi, Founder and Executive Director of Open Door Legal (Ep. 168)04 Feb 202500:40:36

 

Join us for a powerful conversation with Adrian Tirtanadi, Founder and Executive Director of Open Door Legal, as we explore the transformative impact of universal legal representation on poverty, homelessness, and immigration. Inspired by a deep commitment to systemic change, Adrian founded Open Door Legal, which has achieved remarkable results, securing over $50 million in direct assets for low-income communities of color and preventing homelessness for one person every 2.4 days.

In this episode, we delve into:

  • The Inspiration Behind Open Door Legal: Hear Adrian's personal journey and the driving force behind his mission to provide universal access to legal aid.

  • Understanding Universal Legal Access: We discuss what it means to ensure everyone, regardless of income, has access to legal representation and why it's a game-changer for marginalized communities.

  • Protecting Immigrant Rights: We examine the current challenges facing immigrants and explore how legal representation can safeguard their rights in the face of systemic attacks.

  • Addressing the Root Causes of Homelessness: Discover the crucial link between lack of legal representation and the cycle of homelessness, and how legal aid can break that cycle.

  • The Importance of Mental Health for Legal Aid Attorneys: Adrian emphasizes the critical need for legal aid attorneys to prioritize their mental well-being and seek support.

  • Making a Difference Through Donations: Learn how your contributions can directly support Open Door Legal's vital work and empower vulnerable communities.

  • Finding Hope in Challenging Times: We discuss strategies for combating despair and cultivating hope in the face of social injustice and adversity.

Adrian's story is one of hope, resilience, and the unwavering belief in the power of justice. Tune in to be inspired and learn how you can be part of the solution.

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Empowering Asian American voices through storytelling with Jerry Won, Founder & CEO of Just Like Media and Host of Dear Asian Americans Podcast (Ep. 167)28 Jan 202500:53:29

 

Jerry is the Founder & CEO of Just Like Media, an innovative storytelling company home to the award winning Dear Asian Americans Podcast, whose guests include Vice President Kamala Harris, the Asian Creator Awards, and more. He is also the Founder & CEO of World Class Speakers, a speaker coaching and training company that educates and empowers speakers to elevate their influence, impact, and income. His speaking partners include JPMorgan, Harvard Business School, SXSW, Google, Pepsi, Meta, and more. In May of 2023, he was invited by The White House to host a conversation with Vice President Harris at The White House Forum for Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders. He has been featured for his expertise in Forbes, Business Insider, LinkedIn, and more. Jerry earned his B.S. from USC Marshall & MBA from Michigan Ross, He lives in Southern California with his wife Kyunghwa and children.

 

In this episode, we dive deep into:

  • The history of the Asian American diaspora.

  • Challenging the model minority myth.

  • What you can do to advocate for positive change during the current administration.

  • How you can use storytelling to empower your community.

  • How privilege can blind individuals to the struggle of others, and why it's a good thing to understand folks who have different life experiences.  

  • The importance of hope and optimism to sustain ourselves during challenging times.

 

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Finding purpose and passion: how to create work you love with Tammy Dain, Co-founder of Rabble (Ep. 166)21 Jan 202500:33:12

 

The pandemic forced many of us to confront our life's purpose. In this episode, we're joined by Tammy Dain, Co-founder of Rabble, to explore how to continue doing the work you love, even amidst global challenges.

 

Tammy Dain has over 10+ years of experience in the talent acquisition and human resources space from the tech, legal and higher education industries.  Today she wears multiple hats, including Co-Founder of a boutique staffing company, Rabble, and as Senior Talent Acquisition Consultant with Axiom Law, where she was for almost 7 years as their Director of Talent Acquisition in the West region.  Rabble provides embedded recruiters to help talent acquisition teams scale quickly, so that companies can hire faster and gain a competitive advantage in this tight talent market. 

 

Key Takeaways:

  • Navigating uncertainty: discover how to thrive in a world of constant change and find fulfillment in your work despite global challenges.

  • Risk appetite and success: learn how your willingness to take risks directly impacts your professional and personal achievements.

  • Compassion-driven impact: explore how to create meaningful work that helps others while fostering a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

 

Connect with us:

Balancing career, music, and motherhood with Stephanie Wu, Cellist and Marketing Leader (Ep. 165)14 Jan 202500:44:37

 

Do you struggle to balance your passions with your career and life?  In this episode, we dive deep with Stephanie Wu where she shares her inspiring journey:

  • From Youtube Symphony to Google: How her passion for music led to incredible opportunities, including performing at the Sydney Opera House and landing her dream job at Google.

  • The Power of Choice: Why she made the bold decision to turn down a lifetime opportunity at Juilliard to pursue a Master's in cello performance from the Royal Northern College of Music.

  • Balancing Act: How she successfully navigates the demands of motherhood, a demanding career, and her role as a principal assistant cellist for the Berkeley Symphony.

Key Takeaways:

  • Discover how cultivating passions can unlock unexpected career paths and result in career growth and leadership opportunities.

  • Learn how to make bold career choices that align with your values and passion projects.

  • Gain insights into effective time management strategies for juggling multiple roles and have work-life balance.

Want to connect with us?

 

From descendant of slaves to lawyer fighting for social justice with Antonio Ingram II, Senior Counsel at NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund (Ep. 164)07 Jan 202500:50:19

 

Antonio L. Ingram II is Senior Counsel at the NAACP LDF. He is a graduate of Yale College and UC Berkeley School of Law.  He served as a law clerk for the honorable Ivan L. Lemelle in the Eastern District of Louisiana and for Chief Judge Roger L. Gregory for the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals. Antonio also completed a Fulbright Public Policy Fellowship in Malawi where he did anti-corruption work.

Talking to Antonio Ingram II, someone I met when he was a first year law student and I was the Director of Employer Outreach and Career Counselor, left me feeling inspired to focus on doing social justice work sustainably.

In this episode with Antonio, we discuss: 

  • How his background growing up as a Black American in Oakland instills his passion for justice and drives his purpose to make the world better than what he inherited.

  • Why as the descendants of slaves, he believes it's important to clerk for two Black federal judges and change the laws that once held his ancestors in bondage to now protect marginalized communities.  

  • What it felt like to be the only non-White law clerk out of 20 law clerks even when clerking in very diverse states, and why it's important to diversify clerkships.  

  • What we can do to improve the education system, and make public schools a place of integration and learning.  

  • What you can do to have hope, especially during dark times like the Kyle Rittenhouse verdict, by focusing on the progress we've made.  

  • How growing up poor makes us afraid of poverty and keeps us as indentured servants in corporate America, and what we can do to let go of that fear and focus on finding happiness.  

  • How to overcome what seems like insurmountable obstacles by sustaining yourself with wonder and gratitude.  

  • What we learn from Black men who were the first to go to high profile jobs like Goldman Sachs dying prematurely compared to their peers. 

  • How to make the world a better place and not be a martyr and succumb to powers literally trying to take you out and force you to overwork yourself to prove yourself. 

  • How completing a Fulbright Public Policy Fellowship in Malawi where he did anti-corruption work allowed him to get away from White Supremacy and grow in a way that was life empowering.  

  • How to maintain perspective, and know that where you grow up and where you come from does not have to be your entire world, and your world can be boundless.

 

Want to connect with us?

 

Happy Lao New year and connecting with our bodies to reduce anxiety and be calmer with Samorn Selim, Career Coach for BIPOC, women, and first generation professionals (Ep. 163)31 Dec 202400:09:01

 

Happy New Year.

During the holidays, we can become more stressed, anxious, and sometimes depressed.  Perhaps there's too much work and you're struggling to find balance.  Perhaps a loved one passed away and you are mourning their loss.  Perhaps you're already feeling stretched so thin and traveling to see family is putting you on edge.  

So instead of the usual interview with guests, this episode is dedicated to reconnecting with our bodies and our breath. 

  • The meditation itself is less than 6 minutes (0.1 billable hours). 

  • If you want to skip straight to the meditation, it starts at 3:16. 

  • If you can't do the full meditation, then do 5 deep breaths (in through the nose, and out through the mouth) first thing in the morning, right before bed, and anytime you're feeling anxious. 

Want to connect with us?

 

How to make good decisions using logic and intuition with Michelle Florendo, Host of Ask A Decision Engineer Podcast (Ep. 162)24 Dec 202400:43:06

 

As we come to the end of the year, it's a time where many of us are reflective on what happened in the past year and what we hope for in the new year.

Studies show that 1 out of 4 people quit their New Year's resolution within the first week of setting them.  And most people quit before the end of January. 

So to help you make better decisions and stay consistent with your goals, we chat with Michelle Florendo, a decision engineer and coach for Type-A professionals. Michelle has a BS in Management Science and Engineering from Stanford University, and an MBA from UC Berkeley's Haas School of Business.  Michelle uses a blend of decision engineering, design thinking, and lean startup principles to help her clients map their path forward.

She has led workshops at various conferences and has guest-taught on career decision making in Stanford's famous Design Your Life course. She served on the inaugural coaching team for Seth Godin's altMBA, was a founding member of the Forbes Coaches Council, was a Senior Coach for Management Leadership for Tomorrow.  She teaches a decision making course for Stanford Continuing Studies and hosts the podcast, Ask A Decision Engineer.

In this episode, we dive deep into:

  • How the intersectionality of our identities, such as being a woman and being Asian, impact our career decisions.
  • The 3 part framework to making any decision, so that you don't feel overwhelmed.
  • Why you always have the power to make a decision, even if you feel like you're stuck between a rock and a hard place.
  • How to consistently make good decisions using not just logic but also your emotions as guidance. 

Want to connect with us?

Managing the job search when you have mental health issues, been laid off, and struggle with applying consistently with Samorn Selim, Career Coach for BIPOC, women, and first generation professionals (Ep. 161)17 Dec 202400:43:27

 

Have you been struggling with your job search? And you want to stop feeling stuck and frustrated, and land your dream job in the next 3 months? In this episode, Samorn shares:

  • Answers to the most commonly asked questions from working with over 1,000 clients.
  • Why mental health is the most important thing to having a fulfilling life and career.
  • What you can do to rebuild your life when it has been upended because of a mental illness like anxiety, depression, and bipolar.
  • How you can manage your emotions and job search after a layoff.
  • The number one strategy that makes the difference between a client who has a successful job search versus who isn't.
  • How you can stay consistent with your job search even when you're dealing with fear, rejection, and burnout.
  • Whether you should disclose your mental illness.
  • How to network effectively to build a community.

 

How to connect with Samorn

  • Follow Samorn on LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/samornselim.
  • To get weekly career tips, sign-up for our newsletter at www.careerunicorns.com. 
  • Get a copy of Samorn's book, "Belonging: Self Love Lessons From A Workaholic Depressed Insomniac Lawyer" at https://tinyurl.com/swpc578c. Get a copy of Samorn's book, "Belonging: Self Love Lessons From A Workaholic Depressed Insomniac Lawyer" at https://tinyurl.com/ykzkd949. 
  • Schedule a free 30-minute build your dream career consult by sending a message at www.careerunicorns.com.  
Advocating for yourself as a Black woman and getting promoted into executive leadership with Kimyatta Holder, VP, Senior Associate General Counsel, Head of Compliance, and Privacy Officer at Modern Health (Ep. 160)10 Dec 202400:42:33

 

Kimyatta Holder is VP, Senior Associate General Counsel, Head of Compliance, and Privacy Officer at Modern Health, where she is responsible for the regulatory, product, and privacy legal functions, as well as the design, implementation, oversight, and management of Modern Health's global compliance program. Prior to joining Modern Health, Kimyatta was the Head of Internal Investigations and Regulatory Counsel at a Fortune 10 corporation and was a Big Law attorney at Alston & Bird.  

 

In this conversation, we dive deep into:

  • The intersectionality of our identities and navigating the complexities of race, gender, and mental health in the workplace. 

  • The impact of having a military family background impacts our career choices.

  • The systemic barriers and challenges a Black woman faces in the legal field, and what you can do to thrive in your career. 

  • The importance of knowing your self-worth and being your own advocate.

  • How having a supportive network and your own "board of directors" where you can have candid conversations can help you accelerate your career growth.

  • How workplace trauma is real, and how you can get support to heal.

  • The 90 day rule that can help you make career decisions quickly, and leave a toxic job.

  • What you can do as a leader to create a culture that fosters diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging.  

  • What qualities leaders look for when they are thinking of sponsoring proteges, and how to build meaningful relationships in the workplace. 

 

Want to connect with us?

 

 

The Mirror Effect: Dr. Sheila Gujrathi on Finding Your Voice, Overcoming Imposter Syndrome, and Using Gratitude To Own Every Room You Walk Into (Ep. 195)05 Nov 202500:57:47

 

As a physician, biotech CEO, and champion for women in leadership, Dr. Sheila Gujrathi, MD, has spent her career breaking ceilings and teaching others how to do the same.

 

In this powerful episode of Career Unicorns - Spark Your Joy, we dive deep into the real-world barriers—from childhood racism ("Indians Go Home") to professional microaggressions—and how she reframed the pain of shame and doubt.

We discuss:

  • The devastating impact of FIDS (Fear, Insecurity, Doubt, & Shame).

  • Why self-compassion is the key to silencing your inner critic.

  • Battle-tested strategies for addressing toxic behavior and gaslighting immediately.

  • How practicing gratitude is the ultimate superpower for career resilience.

You do not want to miss this essential masterclass in owning your power.

 

Connect with us:

 

Landing your dream leadership role during a challenging job market with Lisa Heirtzler, Senior Director, GTM Strategy & Growth at NAVEX (Ep. 159)03 Dec 202400:41:50

 

Lisa is a growth strategy leader with deep expertise in empowering small businesses to succeed. With over 15 years of experience in the software industry, she has successfully navigated both enterprise and start-up environments, with a focus on crafting strategies that help small businesses thrive in an ever-evolving landscape. Currently, Lisa is the Senior Director, GTM Strategy & Growth at NAVEX. Previously, she led the global GTM launch of QuickBooks Self-Employed at Intuit, empowering millions of entrepreneurs, and freelancers to simplify their business management.

 

In this episode, we dive deep into:

  • Aligning one's environment with your personal energy.

  • How our family background can instill values of autonomy and resourcefulness and impact our careers.

  • How hiring a career coach can help you find clarity in your career, expedite your job search, and get an offer from your dream job.

  • Why self worth is foundational to negotiating, and what you can do as a woman to negotiate confidently to increase your salary.

  • How cultivating a culture of gratitude as a leader can lead to increased happiness and engagement.  

  • Why grieving doesn't have a timeline, and how you can support colleagues who have lost loved ones.

  • How to develop mentors organically and the importance of recognizing that it requires mutual investment.  

  • How trusting your gut can prevent future regrets in decision-making.

 

Want to connect with us?

 

 

Finding peace in the midst of chaos with Samorn Selim, Career coach for Black, Indigenous, people of color, women, and first generation professionals (Ep. 158)26 Nov 202400:06:28

 

The 2024 election results have left many of us feeling lost and devastated.  During these challenging times, it's easy to consume negative information and spiral into doom and gloom.  So for this week's podcast, we're doing a short meditation.  We hope that this mindfulness exercise will help you come back to yourself, recenter, and get grounded again. 

 

Want to connect with us?

From pro athlete to lawyer: overcoming depression, finding purpose, and becoming a managing partner with Adam Sloustcher (Ep. 157)19 Nov 202400:33:03

 

Adam Sloustcher is the regional managing partner of Fisher Phillips' Dallas office and is the Co-Chair of his firm's Sports Team. In addition to advising sports employers, Adam's practice also focuses on guiding in-house counsel, business owners, and management through all workplace issues and litigation. He has been named for numerous consecutive years in San Diego Super Lawyers, SD Metro Magazine, and the SD Business Journal for his work in labor and employment law. Adam's drive to achieve the best possible outcome for his clients stems from his competitive athletic background where he was a member of the Under-17 and Under-18 U.S. Youth National Soccer teams, received a full athletic scholarship in college, and then played professional soccer with the San Jose Earthquakes of Major League Soccer.  

 

In this episode, we dive deep into:

  • Feeling lost and depressed, and the steps taken to find your purpose again.

  • The importance of taking care of your mental and physical health.

  • Why you can't be perfect or 100% at everything, and how to build work-life harmony.

  • How to know when enough is enough.  

  • The importance or prioritizing and knowing what to say no to.  

  • What you can do to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion to your firm, and create win-win for everyone involved.

  • How to nurture relationships that lead to successful business development.

  • The #1 strategy used to onboard 900 new clients.  

 

How to connect with us:  

Finding Your Voice, navigating cultural expectations, and going after your dreams with Elaine Lou Cartas, trauma-informed & award-winning woman of color business coach (Ep. 156)12 Nov 202400:51:02

 

In this episode, we dive deep with Elaine Lou Cartas, a trauma-informed and award-winning woman of color business coach.  

Elaine Lou Cartas is a trauma-informed and award-winning woman of color business coach, a certified executive coach, and a speaker for women of color and allies. In the past 6 years, Elaine has worked with 7,000+ clients in 58 different countries.  Elaine is recognized as the #1 thought leader by LA Weekly, best leadership and executive coach by MSN, a top 5 business coach by Apple News, and a top career coach for women by Life Coach Magazine. Elaine offers a trauma-informed certified space to acknowledge your experiences and that your definition of happiness in work and life can continuously evolve.  She lives in Los Angeles with her partner, and loves Muay Thai and Hot Yoga in her down time.

 

We explore:   

  • The challenges and triumphs of navigating life as a first-generation Filipino immigrant, including the impact of cultural expectations on career choices.
  • The importance of self-awareness, recognizing the distinction between being a "human doing" and a "human being."
  • How to prioritize mental health in the face of toxic work environments.
  • How to manage burnout, getting fired, getting laid off, and the healing power of therapy.
  • Key strategies for making successful career pivots, negotiating effectively, and redefining success on your own terms. 
  • The dangers of vanity metrics.
  • How to redefine success by embracing "enoughness."
  • The importance of work-life balance, and the power of play and inner child healing.

 

How to connect with us:  

Healing trauma, managing burnout, and building a thriving career in diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging with Jaya Mallik, DEIB Expert (Ep. 155)05 Nov 202400:49:01

 

It's Election Day.  There are so many feelings of uncertainty and chaos.

We hope this conversation today with Jaya Mallik, founder of Jaya Mallik Coaching & Consulting, where she focuses on diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging will leave you hopeful.

Before Jaya started her own company, she worked as a teacher and led DEI efforts at Meta, Amazon, and Tandem Diabetes Care. 

In this episode, we do a deep dive into:

  • 3:01 - Introduction to Jaya Mallik and her journey as 3rd culture person.
  • 5:51 - Finding joy in DEIB work even with all the backlash we're experiencing.
  • 8:59 - The importance of balancing individualism and collectivism, and how to find harmony.
  • 11:59 - Key strategies for transitioning from teaching to tech.
  • 21:00 - Challenges and insights from working in big tech.
  • 29:43 - How to handle racism and micro aggressions in the workplace.
  • 36:50 - Why it's important to find community and support, especially when you're navigating challenging workplaces. 
  • 41:52 - How to show up with authenticity in the workplace.
  • 49:28 - The importance of embracing vulnerability and normalizing conversations about toxic workplaces and mental health.

 

Want to connect with us?  

Building your dream career and getting promoted to the C-suite with Shana Simmons, Chief Legal Officer at Zendesk and formerly at Everlaw (Ep. 154)29 Oct 202400:45:42

Do you want to get promoted into leadership.  But you're not sure what to how to get there?

In this episode with Shana Simmons (Chief Legal Officer of Zendesk and formerly of Everlaw), we discuss:

  • What it means to grow up poor with very little access to resources and how it impacts the way you navigate the world.  

  • What the spirit of community and generosity means despite being poor, and how that helps you have empathy and compassion as a leader.  

  • How to get promoted into leadership, and be part of the C-suite.

  • How having access to privilege can be a double edged sword giving us access to resources while making us feel othered and less than.

  • The impact of laws and ordinances that prevented our families from building generational wealth, and the importance of changing that for future generations.  

  • The significance of having a seat at the table and how to leverage your privilege to create more inclusion and belonging.  

  • Why striving for perfection is a setup for failure, and how returning to base camp in your life and career can help accelerate your career growth.  

  • Why mental health is important and what you can do to get support for depression.  

 

How to connect with us:

 

Building a career in AI and ethical technology with Kathy Pham (Ep. 153)22 Oct 202400:48:07

 

In this week's episode, we chat with the Kathy Pham.  She just received the AnitaB.org Technical Leadership Abie Award for being a pioneer, visionary, and bridge builder in government, tech, venture capital, nonprofit, and academia.  Kathy is  the Vice President of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning at Workday, an inaugural board member of Blue Tulip Ventures focused on funding responsible AI companies, a faculty for Product Management at Harvard University, and was the former Executive Director of the National AI Advisory Committee.

 

In this episode, we do a deep dive into: 

  • How growing up with Vietnamese refugee parents shaped her beliefs and career choices.
  • What organizations can do to support high performing employees who also have caretaking responsibilities.
  • The importance of creating a supportive community for both your personal and professional growth.  
  • Why imposter syndrome is common and a normal part of career growth.  
  • How setting your intentions and letting people know your interests can lead to career opportunities and career success.  
  • The number 1 mistake people make when interviewing, and what they can do instead to land an offer.  
  • Why taking care of your physical health and your relationships is crucial to well being and success.  
  • Recognizing that careers are non-linear, and it's okay to explore different paths and embrace new opportunities.
  • The importance of building ethical technology and how to land job opportunities in AI.  

 

How to connect with us:

 

 

Recovering from trauma, finding self-acceptance, and leading with compassion with Rosie Yeung, Founder of Changing Lenses and Certified Trauma Recovery Coach (Ep. 152)15 Oct 202400:49:45

 

Are you wondering how to navigate the complexities of cultural identity, personal and systemic challenges, and trauma? 


In this episode with Rosie Yeung, Founder of Changing Lenses and the Un-Executive Coaching Methond and a Certified Trauma Recovery Coach, we discuss the challenges that marginalized communities face and how this plays out in mental health and workplace dynamics.  We do a deep dive into: 

 

  • The importance of understanding trauma and its impact on behavior and performance. 
  • The critical need for self-compassion, self-validation, and self-acceptance.
  • How "executive presence" is often defined by outdated standards.
  • Why cultural identity plays a significant role in personal and professional experiences.
  • How trauma can be intergenerational and deeply rooted in family history.
  • Why mental health stigma persists, especially in immigrant communities, and what you can do to overcome these barriers.
  • What to do when you face racist behaviors.
  • How "Unexecutive Coaching" focuses on uncovering and recovering from trauma.
  • Why systemic discrimination affects perceptions of performance and capability.


Connect with Rosie at https://www.linkedin.com/in/rosieyeung/.


Connect with Samorn at www.linkedin.com/in/samornselim.


Get a copy of Samorn's book, "Belonging: Self Love Lessons From A Workaholic Depressed Insomniac Lawyer" at https://tinyurl.com/swpc578c.


Get weekly career tips by signing up for our newsletter at www.careerunicorns.com.

 

Finding belonging at work: bringing your whole self to work and building your dream career with Michaela Cultrara, Product Marketing Manager at UtilityAPI (Ep. 151)08 Oct 202400:47:28

 

Are you feeling lost in your job search?  This episode with one of my former clients, Michaela Cultrara, Product Marketing Manager at UtilityAPI,  is for you.  Michaela shares how she went from getting laid off, helping her mom clean homes to make ends meet, and how she successfully transitioned from public interest to tech. 


In this episode with Michaela, we dive deep into: 


- Culture & Career: Learn how your background shapes your work style and ideal work environment.


- The Power of Mentorship: Discover how mentors can accelerate your professional development.


- Conquer Networking: Get actionable strategies to build a robust professional network.


- Master the Interview: Learn how positive energy and a strong impression can win you the job.


- Boundaries & Wellbeing: Set healthy boundaries to have work-life balance and avoid compromising your identity and getting burnout.


- Find Your Dream Job: Align your career with your values and passions.


- Trust Your Journey: Focus on personal growth and don't be swayed by others' opinions.


- Invest in Yourself:  The value of hiring a career coach and how that can transform your life and career.


Connect with Michaela at https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelacee/.


Connect with Samorn at www.linkedin.com/in/samornselim.


Get a copy of Samorn's book, "Belonging: Self Love Lessons From A Workaholic Depressed Insomniac Lawyer" at https://tinyurl.com/swpc578c.


Get weekly career tips by signing up for our newsletter at www.careerunicorns.com.

 

Thriving in corporate America as a Black man and first-generation college grad with Jaymon Ballew, Senior Counsel at The Major League Soccer (Ep. 150)01 Oct 202400:48:13

 

This week, I'm so excited to share a podcast with one of my former clients, Jaymon Ballew.  Jaymon is Senior Counsel for The Major League Soccer and a first-generation college and professional graduate.  He shares his experiences navigating corporate America as a Black man, the importance of understanding the unwritten rules of the professional world, and how our work together helped him get clarity and land his dream job in sports.


In this podcast, we do a deep dive into:

- How to reconnect with your true passions when you feel lost.
- How to build support networks and mentors who can provide guidance and validation and help you navigate the unwritten rules of corporate America. 
- Why preparing and doing mock interviews is critical to success. 
- How to transition from law firm practice to your first in-house role.
- Why it's important to have an open mindset to pursuing opportunities even if it means taking a different career path.
- What you can do to confidently negotiate your worth. - How you can prepare to navigate predominantly White spaces when you're a Black man.
- The importance of prioritizing mental health and how to recover from burnout.


Connect with Jaymon on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaymonballew/ or instagram @thej.ball.


Connect with Samorn at www.linkedin.com/in/samornselim.


Get a copy of Samorn's book, "Belonging: Self Love Lessons From A Workaholic Depressed Insomniac Lawyer" at https://tinyurl.com/swpc578c.


Get weekly career tips by signing up for our newsletter at www.careerunicorns.com.

 

Navigating Systemic Bias and Finding Our Shared Humanity with Kori Carew (Ep. 194)29 Oct 202500:46:19

 

Welcome, Career Unicorns! How do we lead with courage and heart when the system is stacked against us?

 

Join us for a deeply moving and vital conversation with Kori Carew, Chief Catalyst Officer and Founder of Bridge 68 LLC, lawyer, TedX speaker, and former Chief Inclusion and Diversity Officer.

 

Kori challenges us to move beyond "a moment" to a true movement, urging us to reflect deeply on our values and courageously design the world we want to see.

 

In this episode, we dive deep into:

  • Courageous Leadership: Discover how to show up as leaders in our ordinary daily lives when systemic biases are real.

  • Reclaiming Humanity:  The impact of a racialized society stripping away our humanity and what we can do to reclaim our human dignity.

  • Power of Empathy:  Learn how to practice empathy, especially when we're attacked, and remain hopeful in our capacity for good. 

  • Creating Belonging:  Practicing empathy with the understanding that we may all be in the same storm, but we're not in the same boat.

  • Embracing Rest:  Recognizing why burnout is real, and what you can do to find joy while advocating for justice and change.

 

Connect with us:

How to leave your toxic workplace with Sarah Cottrell, Founder of Former Lawyer (Ep. 149)24 Sep 202400:49:36

 

Are you working at a toxic job?  But you're afraid to leave?  In this episode with Sarah Cottrell, founder of Former Lawyer, we do a deep dive into:

- How to pay off your student loans after leaving your job.
- How you can work on building your dream career while working your full time job.
- How narcissism is built into workplaces.
- The strategies you can use to leave a toxic work environment.


Connect with Sarah at www.formerlawyer.com.


Connect with Samorn at www.linkedin.com/in/samornselim.


Get a copy of Samorn's book, "Belonging: Self Love Lessons From A Workaholic Depressed Insomniac Lawyer" at https://tinyurl.com/swpc578c.


Get weekly career tips by signing up for our newsletter at www.careerunicorns.com.

How to build a career in human rights with Lindsay Harris, Human Rights Law Professor (Ep. 148)17 Sep 202400:49:19

 

Do you want to build a career in human rights, but you don't know where to even begin?  In this episode, we dive deep into:


- How to build a career in human rights.
- How to create trauma informed training for students and practitioners and why it's important to take care of our mental health. 
- How to find your own voice and give yourself grace when others don't like what you have to say.


Connect with Lindsay at https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindsay-m-harris-4737474/ on Twitter @Prof_LMHarris.


Connect with Samorn at www.linkedin.com/in/samornselim.


Get a copy of Samorn's book, "Belonging: Self Love Lessons From A Workaholic Depressed Insomniac Lawyer" at https://tinyurl.com/swpc578c.


Get weekly career tips by signing up for our newsletter at www.careerunicorns.com.

How to balance being a mom while building your dream career with Winter Wheeler, Founder of Winter Wheeler Mediation and Arbitration (Ep. 147)10 Sep 202400:48:04

 

Are you a parent and you're struggling to balance work and life?  Winter shares:

- What you can put in place to start a business during the pandemic while being a parent.
- What practices you can put in place to get through the tough times.   
- What snapping at her son made her realize about managing her work and life.
- The importance of advocating for yourself, especially as a mom and parent.
- Why we should stop buying into moms being martyrs complex.
- How the secret to building a successful career and business is helping people feel that their feelings and be heard.


Connect with Winter at www.linkedin.com/in/winterwheeler.


Connect with Samorn at www.linkedin.com/in/samornselim. 


Get a copy of Samorn's book, "Belonging: Self Love Lessons From A Workaholic Depressed Insomniac Lawyer" at https://tinyurl.com/swpc578c. 


Get weekly career tips by signing up for our newsletter at www.careerunicorns.com.

How to use mindfulness to create a better life and career with Mona Tashroudian, Founding Partner of Tashroudian Law Group (Ep. 146)03 Sep 202400:53:14

 

Do you feel overwhelmed?  You know you need to make a change, but you're not sure where to start?  We do a deep dive into:


- How mindfulness can help you find calm in chaos.
- How mindfulness can help you better serve your clients and better prepare your clients for high stakes situations. 
- How the pandemic has affected employment laws, and what employees and employers can do given new regulations. 
- How to let go of comparing yourself to others, and live a good life. 


Connect with Mona at www.tashlawgroup.com.


Connect with Samorn at www.linkedin.com/in/samornselim. 


Get a copy of Samorn's book, "Belonging: Self Love Lessons From A Workaholic Depressed Insomniac Lawyer" at https://tinyurl.com/swpc578c. 


Get weekly career tips by signing up for our newsletter at www.careerunicorns.com.

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