Explore every episode of the podcast Embrace the Squiggle: Change happens. Growth is a choice.
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Don’t be the Shoulda, Coulda, Woulda Person with Kristie Raymond | 19 Nov 2025 | 00:36:01 | |
In episode 99 (!!) of Embrace the Squiggle, Colleen and Kristine welcome Kristie Raymond to discuss her journey - that all started by trying a bunch of stuff out. From launching Models Inc in 90's Boston with only a 1.5 years of professional experience, Kristie shares how her childhood dreams evolved through a diverse career path. On this journey she spotted a massive gap: where's the diversity in media? Enter Humankind – Kristie's company pushing for inclusive casting that actually reflects the world we live in. Listen in for the real talk on breaking down barriers in media and why representation isn't just nice to have – it's necessary. Kristie discusses the challenges and successes in advocating for the inclusion of historically excluded groups, especially those with disabilities, in media. Tune in to hear about Kristie's inspiring squiggles and the impact of just trying stuff. Connect with Kristie Raymond: linkedin.com/in/kristieraymond Humankind: https://www.youarehumankind.com/ Stay in Touch with Your Hosts:
Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts for more conversations that transform career complexity into your competitive advantage! | |||
| How Hair Loss Changed Her Life with Tami Wong | 12 Nov 2025 | 00:48:54 | |
Hair loss at 15. A twenty-year journey from hiding to helping others. This week's conversation is all about turning personal struggles into powerful purpose! We sat down with the incredible Tami Wong, founder of Hair Loss Pride, whose unexpected path from biotech professional to advocate and coach demonstrates how our biggest challenges can become our most meaningful work. Squiggles You'll Hear:
This conversation is a beautiful reminder that our most challenging experiences often lead us to our most meaningful work! 🌟 Connect with Tami:
👯♀️ Stay in Touch with Your Hosts:
Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts for more conversations that transform career complexity into your competitive advantage! | |||
| Lessons from a Squiggly Entrepreneurial Journey with Anita Costello | 10 Sep 2025 | 00:39:59 | |
“You have to say yes to things in order to know what you're gonna say yes and no to.” Colleen and Kristine dive into Anita Costello’s squiggle, from her beginnings influenced by her mother's flair for fashion to discovering her passion in high school. Anita shares her path from studying journalism to transitioning into apparel design. The conversation explores her entrepreneurial journey, the importance of community support, and the development of her own fashion line, Biita. Anita offers insights on overcoming challenges, the balance between creativity and business tasks, and the significance of having a supportive network. Connect with Anita: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anita-costello-93a3b42b/ Biita Use Code: SQUIGGLE for a discount! 🎧 Ready to Embrace YOUR Squiggle? Want to be our next guest? Apply here! 👯♀️ Stay in Touch with Your Hosts: Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts for more conversations that transform career complexity into your competitive advantage! | |||
| How to Bring Squiggly Creativity to Any Industry or Role with Michele Downie | 03 Sep 2025 | 00:36:17 | |
Ever wondered how a creative soul thrives in the world of heavy machinery? This episode is your roadmap! Join us as we chat with the incredible Michele Downie, marketing powerhouse at American Crane and Equipment Corporation, who's smashing stereotypes and making waves in manufacturing. What You'll Hear:
🌟 Connect with Michele:
👩🏭 Curious about Women in Manufacturing? Michele's passionate about making space for women in the industry! Learn more about the upcoming summit: WiM SUMMIT 2025 🎧 Ready to Embrace YOUR Squiggle? Want to be our next guest? Apply here! 👯♀️ Stay in Touch with Your Hosts: Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts for more conversations that transform career complexity into your competitive advantage! | |||
| Trust Your Gut: Intuitive Career Squiggles with Casey Stevens | 27 Aug 2025 | 00:52:54 | |
This week on Embrace the Squiggle, Casey Stevens blew us away with her candid take on mixing traditional therapy with what she calls her "witchy wisdom." From divorce to career zigzags, she kept it real about following your gut - even when life gets messy! Want to be a guest on Embrace the Squiggle? Apply here 🔗 Kristine on LinkedIn | |||
| I Met My Sqiuggly Self for Coffee with Jennae Cecelia | 20 Aug 2025 | 00:38:59 | |
What happens when a poem you write goes viral? Our guest this week knows! Jennae shares how her passion for writing blossomed from her childhood and the key moment when a viral poem on TikTok brought her significant attention. Jennae has self-published 13 books – the most popular being, The Sun Will Rise and So Will We and Healing for No One But Me which have sold more than 75,000 copies combined! Her current interests as an author is to tell stories around life experiences that in the moment seem insignificant but become nostalgic as time goes on. She is now signed with Andrews McMeel, a partner of Simon & Schuster to publish her first traditionally published book, Deep In My Feels, available anywhere books are sold. Jennae has expanded into helping brands form an intimate connection with their audience. She has formed creative partnerships with Pinterest, M Fairview Health, Papier, American Eagle, and Canva - to name a few. She lives a life of simplicity centered around art! Her latest interests are pottery and thrifting – anything vintage, people-watching, and hosting themed dinner parties! Buy Jennae’s book: https://www.jennaececelia.com/ Want to be a guest on Embrace the Squiggle? Apply here: https://forms.gle/HFaPMwHHg9kN6RxPA 👯♀️ Stay in touch with your hosts: 🎧 Subscribe for more conversations that transform career complexity into your competitive advantage. | |||
| Behind the Squiggle: Our Producer's Path Across Countries with Lili Paxton | 13 Aug 2025 | 00:50:26 | |
Ever wondered who's working behind the scenes to bring Embrace the Squiggle to life? This week, we flip the script and put our producer, Lili Paxton, in the spotlight! Episodes Squiggles:
Join us for this behind-the-scenes conversation about taking risks, finding your people across continents, and embracing life's unpredictable turns. all from the person who usually edits out our awkward pauses! Connect with Lili on Linkedin Listen to Packing Up & Peacing Out Follow Lili on Instagram Listen to Lili’s Mom’s Podcast Fraudish 👯♀️ Stay in touch with your hosts: 🎧 Subscribe for more conversations that transform career complexity into your competitive advantage. | |||
| Squiggling Through a People-Centered Career with Amanda Wininger | 06 Aug 2025 | 00:37:19 | |
If helping people is your north star, this episode is for you. This week, we chat with Amanda Wininger who skipped college but still rose through the corporate leadership ranks becoming a doula and yoga instructor. It many seem random, but it's all been about helping people. Episode Highlights:
Amanda shares practical wisdom on creating authentic human connections in both work and life, proving that your unique combination of skills and interests isn't random, it's your superpower! Connect with Amanda: @lovelydayyoga | LinkedIn 👯♀️ Stay in touch with your hosts: 🎧 Subscribe for more conversations that transform career complexity into your competitive advantage. | |||
| The Squiggliest Episode Yet with Colleen and Kristine | 30 Jul 2025 | 00:39:04 | |
Ever found yourself nodding along to career advice that doesn't actually feel right for YOU? This week, your favorite career coaches throw out the rulebook completely! Colleen and Kristine tackle the question we've all secretly wondered: "Do I really want that promotion, or am I just supposed to want it?" What We're Squiggling About:
Ladies, we've all sat in that performance review, downplaying our accomplishments while the guy next door is taking credit for the coffee run. This stops now! We share our personal struggles with self-promotion and habit that's changing our confidence game. And for those of you eyeing AI with suspicion: we get it! But after resisting the robot revolution, we've discovered some genuinely game-changing ways to make technology work for us without losing our souls in the process. 👯♀️ Stay in touch with your hosts: 🎧 Subscribe for more conversations that transform career complexity into your competitive advantage. | |||
| Stop Doing Everything: Strength Based Team Building with Lindsay LaBonte | 23 Jul 2025 | 00:37:41 | |
Ever wondered what happens when "Take Your Daughter to Work Day" turns into a full-blown career? This week's episode is a delightful deep dive with Lindsay LaBonte, who turned her childhood fascination with her dad's mortgage business into her own financial industry adventure! What's in store:
Lindsay spills the tea on the art of delegation (spoiler: it's not just dumping work on others), how to create a team that doesn't make you want to hide in the supply closet, and finding moments of joy in the financial world. Plus: Learn why sometimes the best career move is taking a nap! Lindsay's refreshing take on energy management will have you booking that vacation day you've been putting off. This episode is perfect for anyone who's ever thought: "I have no idea what I'm doing, but I'm doing it anyway!" (Which is all of us, let's be honest.) Looking for a mortgage in the Western Mass Area? Connect with Lindsay: https://www.appliedmortgageteam.com/lindsay-labonte 👯♀️ Stay in touch with your hosts: 🎧 Subscribe for more conversations that show how real women squiggle through their careers. | |||
| The 20-Year Squiggle: Thriving Through Internal Career Pivots with Darcey Bennett | 16 Jul 2025 | 00:47:49 | |
Ever wondered what a Chief of Staff actually does… and how to become one? This episode unveils the squiggly career moves that can lead to this powerful but often misunderstood role. What You'll Discover:
Darcey Bennett shares her journey from Smith College research associate to Chief of Staff at multiple organizations including Gartner, CEB, Ellucian, and now RiskExec. Her candid insights reveal how seemingly disconnected experiences build the unique skillset needed for high-level strategic roles. Whether you're curious about the Chief of Staff career path or simply looking to make your diverse background work for you, Darcey's experience navigating fair lending analytics, higher education software, and business advisory firms offers a masterclass in strategic career development. Connect with Darcey: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darceybennett/ 👯♀️ Stay in touch with your hosts: 🎧 Subscribe for more conversations that transform career complexity into your competitive advantage. | |||
| Squiggling Through the Messy Middle with Miranda Lievers, Co-Founder of Thinkific | 09 Jul 2025 | 00:48:03 | |
Questioning your career path? This week's guest went from working a normal corporate job to co-founding a tech company with a billion-dollar IPO—and reveals the unconventional wisdom that guided her journey. What You'll Gain:
Miranda Lievers shares her remarkable path from corporate job at Telus to photography business owner to Thinkific co-founder, proving that career success often comes through embracing uncertainty rather than avoiding it. 👯♀️ Stay in touch with your hosts: A bit about Miranda: Miranda Lievers is unabashedly addicted to the light in people's eyes when they dive into what they're passionate about. She's crafting a wildly unapologetic life in Vancouver, BC. Thinkific Co-Founder & former COO Took Thinkific through IPO at over $1B valuation in 2021 Helped 50k+ businesses grow Raised $200M+ from investors Scaled teams to hundreds, putting culture first Autistic & Queer 2 kids, an incredible husband of 25 years *and* a ridiculously hot Italian girlfriend 2-year sabbatical to rethink everything Life is too short to do anything other than what sets your soul on fire! Connect with Miranda: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mlievers/ | |||
| Navigating the Post-Grad Identity Crisis with Hannah LeBeau | 05 Nov 2025 | 00:42:11 | |
From NFL Sidelines to Therapy Office... What do professional cheerleading and mental health counseling have in common? More than you might think! This week we dive into the fascinating journey of Hannah LeBeau, who transformed from NFL cheerleader to mental health professional while discovering how these seemingly different worlds actually complement each other perfectly. 🔥 What You'll Hear:
This conversation is a masterclass in trusting yourself enough to combine seemingly unrelated passions into something uniquely powerful. 🌟 Connect with Hannah:
Stay in Touch with Your Hosts:
Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts for more conversations that transform career complexity into your competitive advantage! | |||
| Career Zigzags Are the Ultimate Competitive Edge with Anya Cheng | 02 Jul 2025 | 00:44:48 | |
Feeling like your diverse background is holding you back? This week's guest went from investigative journalism in Taiwan to launching an AI fashion startup—and will transform how you see your own career "detours." What You'll Learn:
Anya Cheng (Meta, eBay, McDonald's, Target) shares the counterintuitive moves that took her from reporter to founding Taelor, proving that the most interesting careers rarely follow a straight line—and yours doesn't need to either. Connect with Anya: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anyacheng/ Check our Taelor: https://taelor.style/ 👯♀️ Stay in touch with your hosts: 🎧 Subscribe, rate, and review Embrace the Squiggle for more real conversations on the twists and turns of career and life. | |||
| How to Pivot Without Losing Momentum with Kokui Adesokan | 25 Jun 2025 | 00:39:11 | |
Ever feel like your career path looks more like a game of pinball than a straight line? (Same.) In this episode, we chat with the amazing Kokui Adesokan about her squiggly journey from growing up in Togo to thriving in the U.S. aerospace and tech industries. Kokui opens up about the pivots, plot twists, and big leaps of faith that shaped her career—from studying chemical engineering to finding her groove in aerospace, and all the moments of “sure, I’ll try that” in between. We dig into:
If you’re feeling stuck, burnt out, or unsure what comes next, this conversation will give you the pep talk and practical wisdom you didn’t know you needed. https://www.kokuiadesokan.com/ 👯♀️ Stay in touch with your hosts: 🎧 Subscribe, rate, and review Embrace the Squiggle for more real conversations on the twists and turns of career and life. | |||
| Why Is Clarity Missing And What Can You Do About It? | 18 Jun 2025 | 00:42:10 | |
Feeling lost in the fog of vague directives? You're not alone! In this straight-talking episode, Colleen and Kristine tackle the frustrating reality of unclear organizational goals that leave middle managers dangling. Highlights:
Whether you're struggling to translate fuzzy objectives to your team or trying to impress leaders who keep moving the target, this episode delivers actionable approaches to create clarity where none exists. The squiggliest part of any career path? Often it's finding your way forward when the destination isn't clear. Join us for this essential conversation about thriving amid uncertainty. 👯♀️ Stay in touch with your hosts: 🎧 Subscribe, rate, and review Embrace the Squiggle for more real conversations on the twists and turns of career and life. | |||
| Stop and Celebrate Yourself, You Deserve It! with Robyn Glaser | 11 Jun 2025 | 00:48:38 | |
Are you the kind of person who hits a big milestone… then immediately moves on to the next goal? Same. In this episode, we’re talking to Robyn Glaser—venture executive and all-around badass—about why high-achieving women so often skip the celebration phase, and how that needs to change. We loved this conversation with Robyn Glaser — and we think you will too. 🙌 We talk about: Whether you're pivoting, figuring things out, or just need a reminder that your career doesn’t have to follow a straight line — this one’s for you. Connect with Robyn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robynglaser/ Book she recommends: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18050143-zero-to-one 👯♀️ Stay in touch with your hosts: 🎧 Subscribe, rate, and review Embrace the Squiggle for more real conversations on the twists and turns of career and life. | |||
| Finding a Mentor Who Lifts You Up with Christina Mitine | 04 Jun 2025 | 00:38:44 | |
What a delight chatting with Christina Mitine about her fascinating career path! From aspiring veterinarian to Oracle sales to various AWS roles, her journey proves there's no "right way" to build a meaningful career. Episode Highlights:
Connect with Christina: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cmitine/ Women in Revenue (WIR) - https://www.linkedin.com/company/womeninrevenue/posts/?feedView=all Become a WIR Member - https://womeninrevenue.org/become-a-member/ 👯♀️ Stay in touch with your hosts: 🎧 Subscribe, rate, and review Embrace the Squiggle for more real conversations on the twists and turns of career and life. | |||
| The Not-So- Secret Ingredient to a Thriving Squiggly Career with Soo Finley | 28 May 2025 | 00:35:57 | |
Maintaining genuine professional relationships isn’t just nice, it’s essential. In this episode, we talk about how staying in touch (even casually) can quietly shape your career in powerful ways—and how it’s played out over decades for our guest, Soo Finley. | |||
| What Happens When Work Finally Feels Good with Bonni Scepkowski | 21 May 2025 | 00:43:36 | |
What does it take to build a thriving business while navigating some of life’s toughest personal challenges? This week on Embrace the Squiggle, Colleen and Kristine sit down with the unstoppable Bonni Scepkowski. She is an award-winning meeting strategist, founder of Stellar Meetings, and a master of orchestrating meaningful moments in the life sciences industry. But behind her professional success is a deeply personal journey of resilience, reinvention, and relentless authenticity. From her first job at a travel agency to becoming a sought-after events expert, Bonni shares the career pivots, life-altering moments, and hard-won wisdom that shaped her path. She opens up about overcoming a difficult divorce, raising a daughter with psychiatric challenges, and finding joy in her work through it all. 💬 In this episode, we cover:
Bonni proves that you can love your work, lead with heart, and still keep your sense of humor. If you’re looking for inspiration, grit, and a reminder that success doesn’t have to be linear, this episode is for you. Connect with Bonni: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bonniscepkowski/ 👯♀️ Stay in touch with your hosts: 🎧 Subscribe, rate, and review Embrace the Squiggle for more real conversations on the twists and turns of career and life. | |||
| Starting the HR Revolution with Ashleigh Beadle | 14 May 2025 | 00:39:33 | |
What if the skills you already have could open the door to a career you actually love? This week, we’re joined by the brilliant Ashleigh Beadle, who opens up about her non-linear path from law school dreams to launching her own consulting business. Ashleigh shares the real story behind her career pivots—what worked, what didn’t, and how she leaned into her transferable skills (even when things didn’t go to plan). We chat about navigating uncertainty, staying aligned with your values, and how she’s now helping small businesses with HR and compliance through her company, Sage and Saunter. If you've ever felt stuck, unsure, or ready for a career shift, this episode will remind you that there’s power in the pivot. 🎙️ Topics we cover:
💡 Ashleigh’s story is a reminder that squiggly careers aren't just common—they're where the magic happens. 👇 Stay in touch with your hosts: 🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review Embrace the Squiggle for more honest conversations about navigating work and life. | |||
| Mastering Public Speaking for Your Squiggly Career with Colleen and Kristine | 07 May 2025 | 00:27:42 | |
Terrified of Public Speaking? You’re Not Alone, And We’ve Got You Covered. 🎤😅 In this episode of Embrace the Squiggle, Colleen and Kristine get real about the nerves, mindset shifts, and messy moments behind the mic. From giving a TEDx talk to delivering a major keynote, they’re pulling back the curtain on what it really takes to speak with confidence... and why you don’t need to be perfect to be powerful. You’ll hear:
Whether you’re prepping for a panel, pitching your work, or just dreaming of speaking up more — this episode will help you find your voice and show up with confidence. 🎧 Tune in now — and if you’ve got a story to share, they’re always looking for new guests! 🔗 Connect with Colleen and Kristine: 💌 Want to be a guest on Embrace the Squiggle? Reach out — we’d love to hear from you! | |||
| Turning a Challenging Past into a Purpose-Driven Career with Kelly Martins | 30 Apr 2025 | 00:35:52 | |
What if the very things that once held you back became the foundation for everything you built? In this episode of Embrace the Squiggle, Kelly Martins joins Colleen and Kristine to share the real story behind her squiggly career journey. From a background in graphic design and photography to launching her own consulting business focused on empowering others through strategic marketing and leadership support. Kelly opens up about reclaiming her confidence after leaving a difficult relationship, and how leaning into her lived experiences became the spark for creating GRATI Consulting. Today, she combines sharp business strategy with deep empathy to help others find clarity, confidence, and direction in their own ventures. This conversation is a powerful reminder that resilience, reinvention, and rediscovering your worth often begin in the hardest moments. ✨ In this episode, you’ll hear:
Connect with Kelly: Follow Colleen & Kristine: 🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review Embrace the Squiggle to hear more real conversations about building careers with heart, curiosity, and courage. | |||
| Leap and the Net Will Appear with Kathy Martin | 29 Oct 2025 | 00:42:00 | |
Ever wonder what happens when you jump without knowing where you'll land? Kathy Martin is living proof that sometimes the most unexpected career paths lead to the perfect destination! We sat down with Dr. Kathy Martin, President and CEO of Glenmeadow senior living community, whose journey from sports management dreams to nonprofit leadership was anything but linear. What You'll Hear:
This conversation is packed with wisdom for anyone considering a bold career move or wondering if their winding path actually makes perfect sense! Connect with Kathy: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathy-martin-a45a095/ Stay in Touch with Your Hosts:
Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts for more conversations that transform career complexity into your competitive advantage! | |||
| Being an Introvert in an Extroverted Career with Nellie Beckett | 23 Apr 2025 | 00:36:06 | |
"I’m an introvert... but what I do for a living is an extroverts dream.” 🌟 Kristine on LinkedIn | |||
| The Transformational Power of Taking Career Risks with Moe Belliveau | 16 Apr 2025 | 00:39:06 | |
What do marine biology, massage therapy, and managing a Chamber of Commerce have in common? Moe's career journey. In this episode of Embrace the Squiggle, Colleen sits down with Moe Belliveau, the Executive Director of the East Hampton Chamber, for a conversation that’s anything but linear. With Kristine away, Colleen dives into Moe’s fascinating path, from dreaming of becoming a marine biologist, to drawing blueprints in architectural drafting, navigating the structure of corporate life at Aetna, building a massage therapy business from scratch, and ultimately leading her local Chamber of Commerce. Moe’s story is a masterclass in reinvention. She shares how she leaned into uncertainty, took strategic risks, and embraced career pivots that may have seemed disconnected on paper- but made perfect sense in practice. Whether you’re feeling stuck, curious about starting over, or simply love a good reinvention story, this episode will leave you inspired to follow your own squiggly path. 🎧 Tune in now to hear how Moe turned career curveballs into her own kind of success. Connect with Moe: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moe-belliveau-90112888/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064655386927 Includes:
Startes April 22nd, find out more here: https://www.maxady.com/workshops/p/design-your-next-career-squiggle 🔗 Follow Colleen & Kristine: 🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review Embrace the Squiggle for more inspiring stories! | |||
| Leaving Misaligned Jobs Led to Her Dream Career with Patrika Alis Cheston | 09 Apr 2025 | 00:45:56 | |
Kristine and Colleen chat with Patrika Alis Cheston, a marketing and sales strategist who’s anything but conventional. Patrika walks us through her winding career path—from studying education and journalism to leading strategy for startups and founding her own ventures, Roundology and Outsource SDR. | |||
| How a Health Scare Ignited Her Squiggly Career with Lisa Michaud | 02 Apr 2025 | 00:45:57 | |
How do you turn career pivots into purpose-driven success? This week, Kristine and Colleen sit down with Lisa Michaud, a real estate investor, entrepreneur, and former HR and accounting professional, to explore her incredible career evolution. Lisa opens up about the mindset shifts that helped her navigate multiple career transitions, the power of mentorship, and why personal challenges—including a major health scare—forced her to redefine success on her own terms. In this episode, you'll learn: If you're feeling stuck or uncertain about your next career move, Lisa’s story is packed with insights to help you embrace the twists and turns of your own journey. It’s Time to Design Your Next Career Squiggle! We see it all the time - you know you don't want to continue in your current career, but have no idea what you might want to do next! You feel stuck, exhausted, and unsure where to begin the process. So before you jump into updating your resume and applying for jobs, pause and take time to figure out what your next career chapter could be. One that’s meaningful, energizes you and feeds your full life. What to Expect: Includes:
Jump into your next squiggle here! 🔗 Connect with Lisa: 🔗 Follow Colleen & Kristine: | |||
| From Peer to Boss: Navigating the Awkward Shift with Kristine and Colleen | 26 Mar 2025 | 00:27:52 | |
What happens when you're suddenly in charge of the people you used to work alongside? In this episode, Colleen and Kristine unpack the tricky dynamics of leadership transitions—especially when it means managing former colleagues and friends. They share real talk on:
Plus: We're now on YouTube! Come see the new recording setup in action. 🎤 Want to be a guest in 2025? Apply here! 🔗 Follow Colleen & Kristine: 🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review Embrace the Squiggle for more inspiring stories! | |||
| Curiosity is the Compass of Your Squiggly Career with Karen Single | 19 Mar 2025 | 00:42:08 | |
Colleen and Kristine sit down with Karen Single for a candid and inspiring conversation about embracing the unexpected turns in a career. Karen opens up about her journey—from dreaming of becoming a teacher in the 1960s to facing academic dismissal from college, and ultimately carving out a fulfilling path in higher education. She reflects on career pivots, including a detour into the corporate world at Fidelity, stepping back to prioritize family, and eventually returning to student-facing work at Wheaton College. This episode dives deep into the real stories behind hiring practices, the power of curiosity, and the role of supportive partners in making bold career moves. Karen also shares her take on why we need to rethink experience requirements for entry-level roles and how to stay open to reinvention at any stage. 🎤 Want to be a guest in 2025? Apply here! 🔗 Follow Colleen & Kristine: 🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review Embrace the Squiggle for more inspiring stories! | |||
| Choosing Between Corporate and Entrepreneurship with Michelle Wirth | 12 Mar 2025 | 00:41:05 | |
In this episode of Embrace the Squiggle, Colleen and Kristine sit down with Michelle Wirth, an inspiring entrepreneur and former engineer who has navigated a truly remarkable career journey. From dreaming of becoming Oprah to breaking barriers in engineering and public relations at Mercedes-Benz, Michelle shares the lessons and challenges that shaped her path. Tune in to hear Michelle’s story of resilience, reinvention, and community impact. If you’re looking for motivation to embrace career transitions, support local businesses, and step into leadership with confidence, this episode is for you! Topics Covered: 🎤 Want to be a guest in 2025? Apply here! 🔗 Follow Colleen & Kristine: 🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review Embrace the Squiggle for more inspiring stories! | |||
| When Life Throws Curveballs with Michelle Hooey | 05 Mar 2025 | 00:46:58 | |
Kristine and Colleen sit down with Michelle Hooey to explore the nonlinear paths of career growth, personal transformation, and navigating life’s toughest challenges. After nearly two decades in corporate leadership, Michelle hit burnout while also facing profound personal struggles—multiple pregnancy losses and the birth of her daughter, Goldie, in 2023, who was born with complex medical needs. This experience reshaped her world, leading her on a deep spiritual journey and ultimately to becoming a certified Quantum Coach. Today, Michelle is committed to creating a purpose-driven life, both for herself and for the busy moms she now helps transition from feeling stuck to thriving. She lives in Langley, BC, with her husband, two daughters, and two dogs—embracing both the chaos and the love that come with it. 🎧 Tune in for an inspiring conversation on resilience, authenticity, and redefining success! Connect with Michelle Anchorless Coaching on Instagram 🎤 Want to be a guest in 2025? Apply here! 🔗 Follow Colleen & Kristine: | |||
| The Power of Community in Career Growth with Luzed Guzman Romano | 26 Feb 2025 | 00:42:18 | |
Colleen and Kristine kick things off with LinkedIn advice for anyone facing layoffs, then dive into an inspiring conversation with Luzed Guzman Romano, a top-performing sales leader and advocate for women in Massachusetts. 💡 In This Episode: Plus, fun rapid-fire questions & book recommendations! 📚 🔗 Connect with Luzed: 🎤 Want to be a guest in 2025? Apply here! 🔗 Follow Colleen & Kristine: | |||
| Networking Without the Ick: How to Build Genuine Connections with Colleen and Kristine | 19 Feb 2025 | 00:35:08 | |
Hate the idea of networking? You’re not alone. This week, Colleen and Kristine break down how to make networking feel natural—not slimy. 💡 Why networking isn’t just about job-hunting Ditch the awkwardness and start making connections that actually matter. Tune in now! Want to be a guest in 2025? Apply here! 🔗 Connect with Colleen & Kristine: | |||
| Never Underestimate a Woman with Kelly Paxton | 22 Oct 2025 | 00:48:31 | |
Those words were never truer than when Kelly Paxton discovered that the most trusted employees (often women with spotless reputations) were quietly embezzling thousands or millions before anyone noticed. Kelly's career reads like a spy thriller! What started in the world of commodities trading led to law enforcement. Soon she's a federal special agent, weapon strapped to her hip, chasing criminals in high-speed pursuits... all while pregnant! But the most fascinating chapter began when Kelly noticed a pattern in some fraud cases. The embezzlers weren't who everyone expected. They were trusted bookkeepers, administrative assistants, and office managers AKA the women who no one expects to steal. This revelation launched her into becoming the Pink Collar Crime expert, where she now helps organizations protect themselves from the people they least suspect. If Kelly's last name sounds familiar, that's because squiggliness runs in the family—she's the mother of previous guest Lili Paxton (Episode 85)! Connect with Kelly:
Stay in Touch with Your Hosts:
Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts for more conversations that transform career complexity into your competitive advantage! This episode was produced by Lili Paxton | |||
| Navigating Your Squiggly Career in a Changing World with Paige Carbone | 12 Feb 2025 | 00:46:40 | |
Is your college student (or maybe you!) wondering how LinkedIn can help land that first job? This episode is packed with practical career advice to make job searching easier and more effective. This week on Embrace the Squiggle, Colleen and Kristine sit down with Paige Carbone, Regional Executive Director for MADD, to uncover key lessons from her career journey—from college admissions to nonprofit leadership. The episode shares insider tips on LinkedIn for job seekers, how to align career choices with personal values, and why knowing your strengths can set you apart. 💡 What you’ll learn in this episode: 🎧 Hit play now & take your career to the next level! Don’t forget to leave a rating—it helps more people discover the show. ⭐ Connect with Paige: Linkedin Want to be a guest on Embrace the Squiggle in 2025? Apply here: Guest Application 🔗 Follow Colleen & Kristine: | |||
| Building a Business from the Saddle with Maggie Clancy | 05 Feb 2025 | 00:42:48 | |
In this episode of Embrace the Squiggle, Colleen and Kristine sit down with Maggie Clancy, an entrepreneur and riding academy owner, to discuss resilience, leadership, and making bold career shifts. From an early dream of medical school to building a thriving horse business, Maggie shares the lessons she’s learned along the way—including how working with horses shaped her leadership skills. She also opens up about the challenges of running a business from her own property, setting boundaries as an entrepreneur, and the tough decision to shut down an app she developed. This episode explores: Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a leader, or someone navigating career changes, Maggie’s story is packed with valuable insights. 🎧 Tune in now! And don’t forget to leave us a rating—it helps more people find the show! Connect with Maggie: Want to be a guest on Embrace the Squiggle in 2025? Apply here: Guest Application 🔗 Follow Colleen & Kristine: | |||
| Thriving Through Workplace Curveballs with Colleen and Kristine | 29 Jan 2025 | 00:29:57 | |
In this episode of Embrace the Squiggle, Colleen and Kristine tackle two impactful listener questions that highlight the challenges of leadership and the importance of work-life balance. 💡 Leadership Challenges: Listener 1 writes in about how to handle inaccurate data from colleagues that’s impacting her reports and reputation. Colleen and Kristine share strategies for:
⏳ Reclaiming Your Balance: Inspired by listener 2 who realized her life was entirely defined by work, the hosts discuss actionable ways to:
Packed with relatable stories and practical advice, this episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating career challenges or striving for personal growth. Interested in being a guest on the podcast in 2025? Fill out our application here https://forms.gle/QX6a9a7cV76VYzbt9 Connect and learn more from Colleen at www.maxady.com and on Linkedin at www.linkedin.com/in/comara Connect and learn more from Kristine at https://www.kristinethody.com and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody And please leave us a rating on your podcast app, it really helps us out! | |||
| Following Your Squiggly Path with Emmy Award-winning producer Shirley Neal | 22 Jan 2025 | 00:46:50 | |
Colleen and Kristine sit down with Emmy Award-winning producer, journalist, and author Shirley Neal to explore careers, creativity, and the power of perseverance. 🌍 Shirley shares her journey from TV writing and production to authoring her debut book, Afrocentric Style: A Celebration of Blackness & Identity in Pop Culture. The discussion dives into: 📖 Shirley also gives an inside look into her new book, a stunning exploration of Black identity and culture through pop culture moments, memes, and memories. 🎧 Tune in for career insights, pop culture wisdom, and Shirley’s inspiring advice for aspiring professionals. Connect with Shirley: Connect and learn more from Colleen at www.maxady.com and on Linkedin at www.linkedin.com/in/comara Connect and learn more from Kristine at https://www.kristinethody.com and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody And please leave us a rating on your podcast app, it really helps us out. | |||
| When the Boss Checks Out: Tackling Disengaged Leadership with Colleen & Kristine | 15 Jan 2025 | 00:33:16 | |
Have you ever had a boss who is just checked out? Colleen and Kristine delve into the challenges of disengaged leadership and its impact on teams. They explore how overburdened and under-trained leaders can unintentionally harm team dynamics and productivity. The discussion includes strategies for effective communication, the importance of weekly feedback, and the value of hiring complementary skills to build a well-rounded team. They also touch on the concepts of reverse mentoring and cultivating a personal board of directors for leaders. Interested in being a guest on the podcast in 2025? Fill out our application here https://forms.gle/QX6a9a7cV76VYzbt9 Connect and learn more from Colleen at www.maxady.com and on Linkedin at www.linkedin.com/in/comara Connect and learn more from Kristine at https://www.kristinethody.com and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody And please leave us a rating on your podcast app, it really helps us out. | |||
| Finding Purpose in the Pivot with Ja’Milla Lomas | 08 Jan 2025 | 00:44:54 | |
In this episode of Embrace the Squiggle, Colleen and Kristine sit down with Ja'Milla Lomas, a dynamic professional whose career is as multifaceted as her talents. From dreaming of becoming a cardiovascular surgeon ballerina to thriving in communications and community service, Ja'Milla's journey is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the power of finding your true purpose. Born and raised in Houston, Ja'Milla reflects on her path of self-discovery, from her transformative years at Smith College to navigating career shifts that spanned retail, experiential marketing, and special events. Now serving as the Public Information Officer and Community Relations Director for the Houston Fire Department, Ja'Milla combines her innate charisma and passion for service to make a meaningful impact on her community.
Connect with Ja’Milla https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamillacklomas/ Follow on Insta: millamoo1913 Interested in being a guest on the podcast in 2025? Fill out our application here https://forms.gle/QX6a9a7cV76VYzbt9 Connect and learn more from Colleen at www.maxady.com and on Linkedin at www.linkedin.com/in/comara Connect and learn more from Kristine at https://www.kristinethody.com and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody And please leave us a rating on your podcast app, it really helps us out. | |||
| Highs and Lows of the Music Industry with Shannon Herber | 01 Jan 2025 | 00:51:13 | |
Were you a theatre kid? Do you think you have used your theatre kid skills in your squiggly career? Shannon is the Founder & Chief Consultant of the music industry consulting firm Wise River Consulting. Wise River works at the intersection of music and tech, introducing artists, labels and managers to the ways in which emerging tech can enhance their connection to fans, build communities and provide passive revenue streams. Wise River also includes live events, artist relations and GRAMMY consulting. Ms. Herber was named one of Shesaid.so's Alternative Power 100 Music List in 2019 and is a Global Advisory Board Member for UK-based arts non-profit In Place of War; a Co-Chair of the Association For Electronic Music's Emerging Tech Committee; and a Board Member for US-based music non-profit Femme House. She is a Professional member of the Recording Academy and a member of the UK-based Association for Independent Music. Connect with Shannon: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannon-herber/ https://www.instagram.com/shannon.herber/ Rapid Fire:
Interested in being a guest on the podcast in 2025? Fill out our application here https://forms.gle/QX6a9a7cV76VYzbt9 Connect and learn more from Colleen at www.maxady.com and on Linkedin at www.linkedin.com/in/comara Connect and learn more from Kristine at https://www.kristinethody.com and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody And please leave us a rating on your podcast app, it really helps us out. | |||
| One Year of Embrace the Squiggle: Approaching Internal Promotions with Colleen & Kristine | 18 Dec 2024 | 00:39:56 | |
This episode is a celebration of squiggles and commitment! We went all in on this podcast, and it has been such a pleasure to make this squiggly podcast for you all. This episode not only a celebration, but also includes a focus on navigating internal promotions, building networks, and leveraging mentorship and sponsorship. We also discuss the differences between mentorship and sponsorship and share personal stories of career growth, rejection, and success. Interested in being a guest on the podcast in 2025? Fill out our application here https://forms.gle/QX6a9a7cV76VYzbt9 Connect and learn more from Colleen at www.maxady.com and on Linkedin at www.linkedin.com/in/comara Connect and learn more from Kristine at https://www.kristinethody.com and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody And please leave us a rating on your podcast app, it really helps us out. | |||
| Becoming a Connector in Your Community with Dawn Creighton | 11 Dec 2024 | 00:44:43 | |
This episode of Embrace the Squiggle Dawn Creighton shares her squiggly path starting from her childhood dreams of being in cosmetology to her diverse roles in banking, sales, nonprofit management, and community outreach. She emphasizes the importance of authenticity, resilience, following one's gut, and valuing personal experiences and connections above material possessions. Dawn Creighton is Assistant Vice President, Community Outreach Officer, Western Massachusetts Market, Liberty Bank. Dawn is highly connected in the Western Massachusetts community through her work past experiences with the Associated Industries of MA, Greenfield Community College, MassHire Holyoke, and Corporation for Public Management. She created many partnerships with local non-profits. Speed Round Answers:
Connect with Dawn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dawncreighton/ Interested in being a guest on the podcast in 2025? Fill out our application here https://forms.gle/QX6a9a7cV76VYzbt9 Connect and learn more from Colleen at www.maxady.com and on Linkedin at www.linkedin.com/in/comara Connect and learn more from Kristine at https://www.kristinethody.com and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody And please leave us a rating on your podcast app, it really helps us out. | |||
| Finding the Right Leadership to Thrive Under with Joan Perreault | 04 Dec 2024 | 00:41:43 | |
Did you have a dream job that once you got it, you actually didn’t like that much? This episode is for you. Joan has navigated through various roles and industries along her very squiggly career path. Her career journey has taken her from for-profit to non-profit, marketing to education, at home and abroad, with stints in higher ed, manufacturing, healthcare, and even government service. She's been pleasantly surprised at just how relevant her seemingly disparate experience has been with each new career step that she takes. It all comes together in Joan's current role as a Continuous Improvement Coach for Unit-Based Teams (UBTs) at UMass Memorial Health, where she represents a labor-management partnership between the hospital system and its largest labor union, the SHARE union. Outside of work, Joan has an addiction to audiobooks, practices improv comedy, and enjoys spending time with her partner and two little ones.
Connect with Joan on LinkedIn Interested in being a guest on the podcast in 2025? Fill out our application here https://forms.gle/QX6a9a7cV76VYzbt9 Connect and learn more from Colleen at www.maxady.com and on Linkedin at www.linkedin.com/in/comara Connect and learn more from Kristine at https://www.kristinethody.com and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody And please leave us a rating on your podcast app, it really helps us out. | |||
| Finding Your Identity After Leaving Teaching with Lauretta Ruppert | 15 Oct 2025 | 00:43:05 | |
“Who am I when I'm not a teacher?” Our first-ever Part Two is here! We continue Lauretta's story after her difficult decision to leave teaching mid-year. In this episode, Lauretta shares how walking the Camino across Spain became an unexpected path to healing and rediscovery. She opens up about navigating her identity beyond "teacher" and the simple yet profound lessons she found along the way. What You'll Hear:
This conversation is for anyone wondering what comes after a difficult career transition. Follow Lauretta on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@thelaurettaann Connect with Lauretta: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauretta-ruppert-a79ab5218/ 👯♀️ Stay in Touch with Your Hosts:
Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts for more conversations that transform career complexity into your competitive advantage! #EmbraceTheSquiggle #TeacherBurnout #CareerTransition #MentalHealthAtWork #EducationReality | |||
| Creating Value in Your Squiggly Career with Elissa Unton | 27 Nov 2024 | 00:48:20 | |
This episode of Embrace the Squiggle asks the question, do you really need that fancy degree? Connect with Elissa: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elissaunton/ Instagram @elissainLA Her Answers to Speed Round: Color: teal-green (plants!) Place on Earth: park Montana de Oro cliffside park in California No tv Value in others: uniqueness - “I don’t think like you.” Books: The Power of Full Engagement https://a.co/d/0yRi7j3 Range https://a.co/d/4STrdPS Presence https://a.co/d/hYwJLPo | |||
| Out of Office: How to Prepare For and Enjoy Time Off | 20 Nov 2024 | 00:35:37 | |
This episode of Embrace the Squiggle, Colleen and Kristine discuss OOO (aka out of office) and reflect on the importance of preparing for time off. They share strategies for leaders and team members to ensure smooth operations during absences, such as clear communication, setting boundaries, and delegating tasks. If you’re about to take some time off, this episode is for you! And if you don't have any vacations planned right now, this is your reminder to plan some time off. Interested in being a guest on the podcast in 2025? Fill out our application here: https://forms.gle/QX6a9a7cV76VYzbt9 Connect and learn more from Colleen at www.maxady.com and on Linkedin at www.linkedin.com/in/comara Connect and learn more from Kristine at https://www.kristinethody.com and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody And please leave us a rating on your podcast app, it really helps us out. | |||
| Going Pro in Your Squiggly Career with Jessica Colson | 13 Nov 2024 | 00:38:51 | |
This week Colleen chats with Jess Colson, a dynamic professional with a background in higher education fundraising, sports management, and nonprofit leadership. A lover of all things sports, Jess chooses to invest her time into running a successful softball training company, NWS Fastpitch, and advocating for equity for women in the sports industry. After thousands of casual conversations between friends remarking on how sports impacted their careers and relationships, Jess launched The Postgame Amateurs Podcast in 2022 to shine a light on the incredible women who “went pro” in something other than athletics. Jess has been a staff member of Girls Inc. of the Valley since 2019, currently serving as the Director of Development and Communications where she drives fundraising strategies and external communications. Jess shares her non-linear career journey from aspiring teacher and veterinarian to fundraiser and business owner. She discusses her experiences at Six Flags, her involvement with Girls Inc., and her venture into coaching young softball players through her business, NWS Fast Pitch. Highlighting the importance of trust, communication, and leadership, Jess offers valuable insights into managing teams and navigating career transitions. Follow Jess on Instagram @jesscolson_ Connect with Jess on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-colson-mba/ Connect and learn more from Colleen at www.maxady.com and on Linkedin at www.linkedin.com/in/comara Connect and learn more from Kristine at https://www.kristinethody.com and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody And please leave us a rating on your podcast app, it really helps us out. | |||
| LIVE Career Coaching Session with Kim Isil | 06 Nov 2024 | 00:47:24 | |
This episode of Embrace the Squiggle Kim Isil gets coached LIVE! Kim reached out to us on TikTok and we are so happy to dig into her career squiggle with you live. Kim shares her unconventional career journey from aspiring veterinarian to becoming a flight attendant for the military, and later moving into HR and recruiting, Kim's story is filled with unexpected twists and turns. The discussion delves deep into career transformations, exploring the importance of finding passion, building connections, and being open to new industries. This episode is full of practical advice on how to approach career change with curiosity and strategy. Connect with Kim: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kim-isil-780b845/ Connect and learn more from Colleen at www.maxady.com and on Linkedin at www.linkedin.com/in/comara Connect and learn more from Kristine at https://www.kristinethody.com and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody And please leave us a rating on your podcast app, it really helps us out. | |||