Career Contessa

Dr. Luis Velasquez joins us to unpack one of the most common (and frustrating) pieces of workplace feedback: “You’re not strategic enough.” Whether you’ve heard it during a performance review or you’re trying to grow your leadership skills, this episode offers clear advice, mindset shifts, and actionable steps to help you become more strategic in your day-to-day work—regardless of your role. You’l...

If you’re doing all the “right” things at work but still not getting promoted, this episode is your wake-up call. Former Google exec and Wild Courage author Jenny Wood joins us to unpack the hidden career traps that keep high performers stuck—and how to finally break through. From redefining “selfish” to reclaiming your power assets, Jenny shares the real talk (and practical tools) you need to sto...

Ever feel like work has lost its spark—or wonder if your 9–5 has any meaning at all? You’re not alone. In this episode, we’re joined by award-winning journalist and workplace expert Jennifer Moss, author of Why Are We Here? , to unpack what she calls a collective workplace crisis. We explore why so many people feel hopeless or disengaged at work—and what you can do about it, even if you’re not rea...

In this 3 in 30 episode, Career Contessa Founder Lauren McGoodwin and Career Coach Marnie Lemonik kick off the first-ever summer series of 3 in 30 —focusing on career clarity from the ground up. The hardest part of a career move is getting started, and we’re breaking down exactly how to do that with three simple steps. Packed with practical ideas and personal stories, this episode is your roadmap...

Leadership expert Suzy Welch shares why execution — not ideas or charisma — is the real key to career growth. Learn how to build a reputation for follow-through and become the person every boss wants on their team. You’ll learn: ✅ Why execution drives promotions ✅ Habits that build trust and credibility ✅ How to turn ideas into action Show Notes Weekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQW...

In a world where AI is transforming the workplace faster than ever, self-leadership has become a must-have skill. But what does it actually mean to lead yourself—and how can you start? In this episode,  Leading Yourself author and leadership consultant Elizabeth Lotardo breaks down four essential practices of self-leaders. Whether you're navigating uncertainty, looking for more meaning in you...

Feeling overworked and undervalued? You might be operating below the resentment line —but you don’t have to stay there. In this episode, Amina AlTai, author of The Ambition Trap , shares four key strategies to help you set boundaries, stay motivated, and reclaim your career satisfaction. You’ll learn: How to recognize when you’re operating below the resentment line and why it happens Practical str...

Struggling with small talk? Dreading awkward silences? According to Harvard professor and author Alison Wood Brooks, there’s a 10-second trick that can instantly make you a better conversationalist—and it’s backed by science. In this episode, host Lauren McGoodwin sits down with Alison to explore why meaningful conversations matter more than ever, and how we can all get better at them with just a...

What sets top performers apart? In this 3 in 30 episode, Career Contessa founder Lauren McGoodwin and coach Marnie Lemonik share three key lessons high achievers live by—like embracing self-awareness, mastering adaptability, and owning your time. Packed with practical tips and tools, this episode will help you level up at work and beyond. Listen in to learn: Why adaptability is your most employabl...

Talking about your achievements can feel uncomfortable, but self-marketing is a crucial skill for career growth. In this episode, career coach and author Michelle Schafer shares how to confidently articulate your value—without feeling like you’re bragging. You’ll learn: How to reframe self-promotion as sharing facts, not boasting Key ways to showcase your value beyond your resume Simple daily habi...

Sleep isn’t a luxury—it’s a career strategy. In this episode, we’re unpacking the powerful link between sleep and work performance with Terry Cralle, RN and certified clinical sleep educator from the Better Sleep Council, to explore how your sleep habits can make or break your productivity, decision-making, and even long-term career growth. Whether you're burning the midnight oil or battling after...

The very trait that makes you a great employee might be holding you back when it comes to negotiating. In this episode, we’re joined by negotiation experts Gerta Malaj and Alex Choi from YourNegotiations.com to discuss why over-communication can hurt your negotiation power—and what to do instead. You’ll learn: Why over-communication weakens your position in a negotiation Practical strategies to us...

Spring is the perfect time to refresh your work routines and habits! Learn three tangible tips in 30 minutes to help you stay organized, productive, and energized—no matter where or how you work with host Lauren McGoodwin and career coach Marnie Lemonik as they dive into: ✅ The difference between routines and habits (and why you need both) ✅ Tried-and-true strategies for structuring your workday...

Navigating tech salaries and equity can be confusing, but understanding the details of stock options, RSUs, and compensation strategies can significantly impact your financial future. Compensation expert, Kimberly Hodgdon, who has worked with major tech companies like Netflix and Pinterest, breaks down key insights to help you maximize your earning potential such as: How to decipher and negotiate...

We’re in the middle of the biggest transformation in work in over a century—from remote work and burnout to shifting employee priorities. Through it all, one factor remains essential: meaning. In this episode, workplace motivation experts Wes Adams and Tamara Myles share how leaders and employees alike can create more meaningful work and why it leads to higher engagement, productivity, and success...

Feeling stuck in your career and unsure of your next move? You’re not alone! In this episode, Career Contessa founder Lauren McGoodwin and career coach Marnie Lemonik break down 3 actionable steps to help you gain career clarity—without the overwhelm. Tune in to learn: The biggest misconceptions about career clarity (and what to focus on instead)  How to identify your strengths, non-negotiabl...

Learn how to navigate tough workplace conversations with grace. Leadership Strategist Talia Fox joins us to share strategies for fostering openness, maintaining trust, and handling sensitive topics like a pro. You’ll learn: The biggest mistakes people make during tough conversations at work. How to use her L.O.V.E approach to difficult conversations Practical frameworks including how to play Value...

Feeling stuck, frustrated, or unsure of how to get what you need from your boss? You’re not alone. In this episode, we’re tackling the essential skill of managing up with special guest Melody Wilding, author of Managing Up . You’ll learn how to: Understand your boss’s motivations and set clear boundaries Advocate for yourself while maintaining strong workplace relationships Improve communication s...

Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed by the rapid changes in your job, considering a career pivot, or simply trying to keep up, this episode is for you. LinkedIn’s Career Coach, Catherine Fisher, is here to share: What’s driving these tough realities about work 3 practical strategies for navigating any career stage right now The top skills hiring managers are looking for + how to show them Show Note...

Don’t let perfectionism stunt your professional growth! Career Contessa founder, Lauren McGoodwin, and Career coach, Marnie Lemonik, share: Before and after stories of perfectionist tendencies Tips for listeners dealing with the pressure to be perfect Our favorite creators and books for letting go of perfectionism Show Notes Weekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQW   Follow Marnie on...

Whether you’re crunching numbers every day or avoiding them entirely, this conversation will redefine how you think about financial success. We’re breaking down the five key signs of financial health with author and financial expert Dr. Annie Cole. You’ll learn: Which sign is the most foundational for financial success How to improve your financial health without earning significantly more Simple...

Feeling stuck in fear, doubt, or overthinking? In this episode, bestselling author and courage expert Dr. Margie Warrell shares powerful insights from her book The Courage Gap . You’ll learn: How to close the gap between thinking and doing A practical 5-step formula for activating courage Tips to reset your relationship with discomfort and take action Show Notes Weekly Newsletter Sign-Up : http://...

Is 2025 the year you finally break free from career stagnation and start making progress toward the work life you truly want? In this episode, we dive into practical, actionable strategies to maximize your career growth, inspired by the game-changing insights from Job Moves with co-author Ethan Bernstein. You’ll learn: The biggest misconceptions about navigating career transitions How to apply the...

LinkedIn has become more than just a professional networking platform—it's your digital resume, your personal brand, and a hub for career opportunities. But with constant updates and evolving trends, how can you make sure you're using LinkedIn to its fullest potential in 2025? Career coach, Marnie Lemonik, and Lauren McGoodwin and here to share: How to use LinkedIn to build your personal brand in...

Nobody cares more about your career than you, so you need to make yourself and your achievements known. Embrace the skill of self-promotion. Career coach Lindsey Lathrop- Ryan is here to offer: Insight into why self-promotion is so uncomfortable The 4-step strategy that makes self-promotion more effective and way less icky Quick self-promotion tactics that take less than 5 minutes Show Notes Weekl...