With nearly 30 years of EU experience, Mina shares her journey from translator to Director of the European Personnel Selection Office (EPSO). As she nears the end of her five-year mandate, she has valuable insights into the EU selection process, EPSO’s role and the essential skills for today’s civil servants — along with plenty of practical tips.

Key takeaways:

👉🏽 Navigating EU Recruitment – Minna shares insights on EPSO’s evolving selection process, including the shift to remote testing and reduced processing times.

👉🏽 Essential Skills for Success – Adaptability, resilience and critical thinking are crucial for aspiring EU civil servants.

👉🏽 The Road to Success – On average, candidates attempt five competitions before securing a position — thorough preparation is key.

👉🏽 Meaningful Work in the EU – A career in EU institutions offers opportunities to shape policies and make a real impact.

Chapters:

• 00:43 - Introduction and Background of EPSO Director Minna Vuorio

• 02:16 - Key Competencies and Values for EU Civil Servants

• 08:15 - Overview of EPSO and Competition Process Changes

• 13:27 - Preparation and Competency Framework for Applicants

• 24:42 - Career Opportunities and Development in EU Institution

  
  

Guest links:

🔗 More about Minna Vuorio Meet our managers | EU Careers

🔗 All about EPSO tests EPSO tests | EU Careers

🔗 Check out EPSO’s competency’s framework EPSO’s Competency Framework | EU Careers

Engagement Links:

🌱 Follow us on Instagram 🌍✨  Inside EU Climate & Careers (@sevimaktaseu) • Instagram photos and videos

⭐️ Rate & review the podcast on Spotify/Apple Podcasts 🎧⭐️ Inside EU Careers • A podcast on Spotify for Creators

🎧 Share this episode with EU communicators and policy enthusiasts!

The views expressed on this podcast are personal and do not necessarily reflect the official position of the European Commission.

This podcast was edited by Puck Wagemaker.

In this episode, Sevim Aktas chats with András Baneth, founder of EUTraining. 🌍✨

András shares his top strategies for passing the EU selection process, known as the EPSO exams and covers everything you need to know to start your EU career. If you're looking for insider advice, this is a must-listen for you.

Key takeaways:

👉🏽 Mastering EPSO Exams – Practical advice on time management, understanding test formats and avoiding common mistakes during EPSO preparation.

👉🏽 From Official to Entrepreneur – Insights into transitioning from EU institutions to entrepreneurship and fostering innovation within EU careers.

👉🏽 Opportunities Beyond EU Institutions – Explore roles in NGOs, think tanks, consultancies and diplomatic missions as alternative paths in EU affairs.

Chapters:

00:01 – Introduction to EU Training and Career Paths

04:24 – Personal Career Journey of András Baneth

06:55 – Transition from EU Official to Entrepreneur

14:08 – Overview of EPSO Exam Preparation

18:22 – Common Challenges and Mistakes in Exam Preparation

31:40 – Alternative Career Paths in EU Affairs

Guest links:

🔗 Connect with András Baneth on LinkedIn: (5) Andras Baneth | LinkedIn

🔗 Go to EU Training: EU Training

Engagement Links:

🌱 Follow us on Instagram 🌍✨ 

⭐️ Rate & review the podcast on Spotify/Apple Podcasts

🎧 Share this episode with EU communicators and policy enthusiasts!

The views expressed on this podcast are personal and do not necessarily reflect the official position of the European Commission.

This podcast was edited by Puck Wagemaker.

In this episode, host Sevim Aktas chats with Hanah Lahe, the youngest Hanah shares how she balanced politics and a master’s degree, ran creative campaigns, and overcame stereotypes as a young female politician.

Whether you’re a student, activist, or aspiring policymaker, this episode offers practical tips on networking, authenticity, and making an impact.

Key Takeaways:

👉🏽 Entering Politics as a Young Voice – Hanah’s unconventional entry via social media highlights the importance of seizing opportunities.

👉🏽 Innovative Campaigning – Learn how Hanah used humor and creativity to stand out and tackle stereotypes.

👉🏽 Staying True to Your Values – Hanah emphasizes focusing on issues that matter, like climate and environment, and staying authentic.

Chapters:

00:03:49 – Entry into Politics 00:11:49 – Campaign Experience and Challenges 00:19:17 – Parliamentary Experience 00:26:34 – Tips for Political Engagement

Guest Links:

🔗 Follow Hanah on Instagram

🔗 Instagram

🔗 Recommended Resource: Becoming by Michelle Obama

🔗 Youth Political Networks: European Youth Parliament

Want to Learn More?

👉 Curious about Hanah’s views on Russia’s war in Ukraine, climate issues, and youth engagement? Check out her profile in The Guardian:

‘People put a lot of hope on me’: Estonia’s youngest MP already making waves

Engagement Links:

🌱 Follow us on Instagram 🌍✨

⭐️ Rate & review the podcast on Spotify/Apple Podcasts 🎧⭐️

🎧 Share this episode with fellow sustainability advocates and young professionals!

The views expressed on this podcast are personal and do not necessarily reflect the official position of the European Commission.

This podcast was edited by Puck Wagemaker.

In this episode, Sevim Aktas chats with Tim McPhie, spokesperson for energy and climate at the European Commission. 🌍✨

Tim shares his career journey—from law school to EU communications—and reflects on how Brussels’ messaging strategies have evolved over the years. He offers insights into disinformation challenges, lessons from EU election campaigns, and practical tips for young professionals pursuing communications roles in the EU bubble.

Key Takeaways:

👉🏽 From law to communications – Tim’s career highlights the importance of adaptability and exploring unexpected paths.
👉🏽 Improving EU messaging – How Brussels shifted to clearer, more accessible communication strategies.
👉🏽 Fighting disinformation – Tips for maintaining trust and delivering reliable information in today’s media landscape.
👉🏽 Career-building advice – Why networking, attention to detail, and policy knowledge are key for EU roles.

Chapters:

• 00:00:01 – Introduction and Career Background
• 00:06:27 – Evolution of EU Institution Communications
• 00:14:19 – Addressing Disinformation and Communication Challenges
• 00:18:25 – EU Elections Experience and Evolution
• 00:22:45 – Career Advice for Young Professionals

Guest Links:

🔗 Connect with Tim McPhie on LinkedIn: Tim McPhie’s Profile
🔗 Learn More About EU Elections: European Parliament Elections.
🔗 Stay Updated on EU Climate News: sevim • eu green deal brief (@sevimaktaseu).

Engagement Links:

🌱 Follow us on Instagram 🌍✨ – @sevimaktaseu
⭐️ Rate & review the podcast on Spotify/Apple Podcasts 🎧⭐️
🎧 Share this episode with EU communicators and policy enthusiasts!

The views expressed on this podcast are personal and do not necessarily reflect the official position of the European Commission.

This podcast was edited by Puck Wagemaker.

In this episode, Sevim Aktas chats with Jean Marcel Akono, an APA for a Green MEP, about breaking into EU politics. 🌍✨

Jean shares his career journey—from internships to policy work—and offers practical tips on applications, networking, and thriving in Brussels.

Main Takeaways:

👉🏽 What Does an APA Do? – Jean unpacks the diverse tasks APAs handle, from policy briefs to office management and communication strategy.

👉🏽 Application Secrets – Learn how to tailor your application to MEPs’ values and do the right research before applying.

👉🏽 Work-Life Balance in Politics – Insights into long hours, election cycles, and tips for staying grounded in high-pressure roles.

Chapters:

• 00:00:01 – Introduction and Background of Jean Marcel Akono
• 00:01:59 – Career Path and Current Role
• 00:03:03 – Understanding the APA Role
• 00:08:57 – Application Process and Requirements
• 00:31:30 – Working Conditions and Expectations

Guest Links:

🔗 LinkedIn: (5) Jean-Marcel Akono | LinkedIn

🔗 Recommended Resource: How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie

🔗 Jobs: EU Career Portal & EU Parliament Traineeships

⁠

Spilling the tea: How to reach out to Members of European Parliament? Their email always has the same structure: ⁠Firstname.LastName@europarl.europa.eu⁠

Engagement Links:

🌱 Follow us on Instagram 🌍✨

⭐️ Rate & review the podcast on Spotify/Apple Podcasts 🎧⭐️

🎧 Share this episode with fellow sustainability advocates and young professionals!

The views expressed on this podcast are personal and do not necessarily reflect the official position of the European Commission.

This podcast was edited by Puck Wagemaker.

In this episode, Sevim Aktas chats with Elias Kuehn von Burgsdorff, speechwriter for European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. 🌍✨

Elias shares his journey from history and economics to crafting speeches for Europe’s top leader—plus tips on storytelling, clarity, and impact.

Key Takeaways:

👉🏽 Mastering Speechwriting Skills – Elias highlights storytelling, logical argument structure, and simplifying complex topics for diverse audiences.

👉🏽 Daily Workflow & Processes – Insights into managing deadlines, research strategies, and collaborating with stakeholders for high-impact speeches.

👉🏽 AI in Speechwriting – Practical uses of AI for efficiency while preserving human creativity and oversight in major speeches.

Chapters

• 00:01:06 Career Journey to Presidential Speechwriter
• 00:03:58 Essential Skills for Speechwriting
• 00:11:41 Daily Routine and Speech Creation Process
• 00:21:31 AI Integration in Speechwriting
• 00:23:18 Tips for Aspiring Writers

Guest Links:

🔗 ****LinkedIn: ⁠Elias Kuehn von Burgsdorff⁠

🔗 Book recommendation from Elias: Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman

🔗 Newsletter tip: ⁠Adam Tooze's Chartbook⁠

Engagement Links:

🌱 Follow us on Instagram

⭐️ Rate & review the podcast on Spotify/ Apple Podcasts

🎧 Share this episode with fellow sustainability advocates and young professionals!

Disclaimer: The views expressed on this podcasts are personal and do not necessarily reflect the official position of the European Commission.

This podcast was edited by Puck Wagemaker.

In this episode, Sevim Aktas answers your top questions about the EU—from jobs and career advice to time management and building a social media platform on climate and energy. 🌍✨

Perfect for Brussels newbies, EU job seekers, and anyone curious about how EU institutions work.

Key Takeaways:

👉🏽 Jobs in EU Institutions – Application tips for EU and non-EU citizens, including Blue Book traineeships and NGO roles.
👉🏽 Education and Skills for Policymaking – Top fields like AI and sustainability and top universities for relevant studies.
👉🏽 Building a Digital Platform – How Sevim grew her Instagram into a go-to source for EU climate updates.
👉🏽 Brussels Networking Advice – Recommendations for events, communities, and professional growth strategies.
👉🏽 Practical Tips for EU Careers – From time management to maintaining curiosity and asking the right questions.

Chapters:

• 00:00:01 – EU Employment Opportunities and Requirements
• 00:03:03 – Education and Career Development in EU Policy
• 00:09:27 – Personal Experience with Social Media Platform
• 00:25:24 – Brussels Networking and Professional Development
• 00:28:48 – Tips for EU Institution Newcomers

Links:
🔗 EU Career Opportunities: europa.eu/jobs
🔗 Recommended Networks: Brussels New Generation and Global Shapers.
🔗 Find All Links & Resources Mentioned: Q&A Links and Resources

Engagement Links:

🌱 Follow us on Instagram 🌍✨

⭐️ Rate & review the podcast on Spotify/Apple Podcasts 🎧⭐️

🎧 Share this episode with fellow sustainability advocates and young professionals!

The views expressed on this podcast are personal and do not necessarily reflect the official position of the European Commission.

This podcast was edited by Puck Wagemaker.

In this episode, Sevim Aktas chats with Christian Holzleitner, head of the Land Economy and Carbon Removals Unit at the European Commission. 🌍✨

Christian shares his career journey—from a working-class background to EU climate leadership—and offers practical tips on leadership, embracing uncertainty, and building a career in sustainability. Whether you’re an aspiring policymaker, climate advocate, or EU job seeker, this episode delivers insights and inspiration to help you grow and lead.

Key Takeaways:

👉🏽 Leadership Beyond Hierarchy – Leadership is about caring for others and making decisive decisions, not titles.
👉🏽 Managing Uncertainty – Learn how to adapt to change and break down big goals into manageable steps.
👉🏽 Career Growth Tips – Focus on diverse experiences, networking, and staying open to non-linear paths.

Chapters:

• 00:00:54 – Career Journey and Background
• 00:02:24 – Leadership Philosophy and Personal Growth
• 00:07:32 – Managing Uncertainty in Policy Making
• 00:12:35 – Leadership Resources and Development
• 00:20:35 – Career Advice for Young Professionals

Guest Links:

🔗 Connect with Christian on LinkedIn: Christian Holzleitner’s Profile
🔗 Book Recommendation (Must-Read!): Towards a Climate-Neutral Europe by Jos Delbeke and Peter Vis.
🔗 Podcast Recommendation: Podcast about Happiness.

Engagement Links:

🌱 Follow us on Instagram 🌍✨

⭐️ Rate & review the podcast on Spotify/Apple Podcasts 🎧⭐️

🎧 Share this episode with fellow sustainability advocates and young professionals!

The views expressed on this podcast are personal and do not necessarily reflect the official position of the European Commission.

This podcast was edited by Puck Wagemaker.

In this episode, Sevim Aktas talks with Kurt Vandenberghe, Director General of DG CLIMA and former EU Green Deal advisor to President von der Leyen. 🌍✨

Kurt shares a behind-the-scenes look at EU climate policy, its challenges, and what’s next for the Green Deal. He also reflects on his unconventional career path—from philology to climate leadership—and offers practical tips for young professionals pursuing sustainability and policymaking.

Key Highlights:

👉🏽 From Philology to Climate Leadership – Kurt’s career path and what it takes to make an impact in EU policy.

👉🏽 Behind the Green Deal – Insights into the evolution of EU climate policy and lessons learned during crises like COVID-19 and Ukraine.

👉🏽 Future Focus: Circular Economy – Why production and consumption patterns must change to meet emission targets.

👉🏽 Career Advice for Changemakers – How to stand out in climate policy jobs, build networks, and drive real impact.

Chapters:

• 00:00:01 – Introduction and Role of Director General
• 00:03:44 – Career Development and Climate Focus
• 00:08:35 – European Green Deal Evolution
• 00:13:24 – Future Outlook and Elections
• 00:20:08 – Practical Implementation and Career Advice

Guest Links:

🔗 Connect with Kurt: Kurt Vandenberghe | LinkedIn

🔗 EU Climate Careers: ec.europa.eu/climate/jobs

🔗 Recommended Book: Delivering a Climate Neutral Europe by Jos Delbeke

Engagement Links:

🌱 Follow us on Instagram 🌍✨

⭐️ Rate & review the podcast on Spotify/Apple Podcasts 🎧⭐️

🎧 Share this episode with fellow sustainability advocates and young professionals!

The views expressed on this podcast are personal and do not necessarily reflect the official position of the European Commission.

This podcast was edited by Puck Wagemaker.