Priyanka Mahankali

The Early Career Podcast

Technology EN ↓ 8 episodes

This podcast is for anyone early in their career who’s figuring it out in real time — from landing your first job to finding your voice at work. I’ve spent 15 years in STEM, including 8 years at AWS building cloud solutions and leading business initiatives in commercial aviation, and I’m here to share what actually helps early on. We’ll talk tech skills and the EQ it takes to stand out, grow, and lead sooner than you think. We will also be having guest episodes with other successful professionals from the workforce. Stick around - this is just the beginning.

Author

Priyanka Mahankali

Episodes

I asked a Senior Director the questions women wish they could ask 04.06.2026 1:17:35

In this insightful interview, Clare shares her journey as a woman in leadership, the importance of authentic networking, and her vision for the future of connected aircraft and leadership. Discover practical advice for early career professionals and learn how empathy, confidence, and strategic thinking can propel your career forward. Chapters00:00 Building Connections and Networking07:55 The Journ...

Corey Salzer exploring Product Manager roles & how to level-up with AI's influence on the workforce 22.04.2026 1:00:27

Product Management in Tech: Prioritization, Influence, and How AI Is Changing Work (with Corey Salzer)Priyanka Mahankali hosts a special in-person guest episode of the Early Career Podcast with her best friend Corey Salzer, a product manager at the edtech startup ParentSquare who previously worked in software engineering, AWS Solutions Architect, and product management at AWS. Corey explains what...

From Rejection to a thriving career in Finance | Urmi Hossain shares her truth 18.03.2026 47:22

In this episode of the Early Career Podcast, Priyanka Mahankali interviews Urmi Hossain, a finance professional with nearly a decade of experience. Urmi shares her journey from studying international business to finding her passion in finance, particularly in portfolio management. She discusses the challenges of navigating a male-dominated industry, the importance of diversity and representation,...

How to stand out and adapt to change in this new AI-driven market 26.02.2026 39:57

In this episode, Priyanka Mahankali discusses the evolving landscape of work in the tech industry, emphasizing the importance of adapting to changes brought about by AI. She provides actionable insights for early career professionals on how to embrace AI, develop essential skills, and build a strong career foundation. The conversation highlights the need for strong judgment, communication skills,...

With Corey Salzer: Imposter syndrome, Bias, How to Belong, Friendships & Product Management 26.02.2026 1:10:13

In this engaging conversation, Corey and Priyanka explore the intricacies of navigating early career challenges, the impact of friendship on professional growth, and the complexities of imposter syndrome. They delve into the role of a product manager, discussing the unique challenges faced by women in tech and the importance of effective communication and setting boundaries. The discussion highlig...

EQ | Ep 3: Why the same layoff feels different to everyone & how to proceed 15.02.2026 27:22

In this episode of the Early Career Podcast, host Priyanka Mahankali delves into the multifaceted impacts of layoffs across various demographics including gender, culture, and immigration status. Priyanka shares her own experience of being laid off and explores how societal conditioning and cultural contexts shape how individuals cope with job loss. She offers practical advice for both men and wom...

EQ | Ep 2: If You Were Laid Off, Listen to This. 15.02.2026 29:42

Navigating Layoffs: Personal Stories, Emotional Coping, and Career StrategiesIn this episode of the Early Career Podcast, host Priyanka Mahankali discusses the challenging topic of layoffs. She shares her personal experience, emotional coping mechanisms, and strategic tips to help those affected by layoffs navigate their emotions and prepare for their next career move. Priyanka emphasizes the impo...

EQ | Ep1 : Why Feedback Feels Like an Attack (And What to Do Instead) 28.01.2026 46:56

For free 1:1 sessions, book your meeting slot here: https://calendly.com/priyankamibl501/30min Embracing Feedback: A Guide to Personal and Professional GrowthIn this episode of the Early Career Podcast, host Priyanka Mahankali, currently in freezing Toronto, dives into the crucial topic of feedback. She offers insightful strategies on how to accept, evaluate, and utilize feedback constructively. T...