The George Washington University College of Professional Studies

The Professionals Podcast

Education EN ↓ 32 episodes

Welcome to The Professionals, a podcast that digs into the stories, secrets, and successes behind some of today's most in-demand careers—from sustainable urban planning and homeland security to AI and politics. Co-hosted by Amanda Gillespie and Luke Kasim from George Washington University College of Professional Studies, the show explores careers that shape the world—and how to get started or get ahead. Guests including career coaches, researchers, authors, entrepreneurs, and professionals at the top of their game share how they got there and what you can learn from their trials, tribulations,...

Author

The George Washington University College of Professional Studies

Category

Education

Latest episode

Aug 12, 2025

Where to listen?

Podcasts in the app Replaio Radio Coming soon

Podcasts are coming to the app soon. Install now and be the first to see a whole new take on podcasts

Get it on Google Play Install for free Android 5M+ downloads · 4.8 rating iOS soon

Episodes

How Do You Write Your Career Story? Ask Design Thinking Expert Elliot Felix 12.08.2025

Takeaways The college experience can be overwhelming without proper guidance. Unsung heroes in student support include dining hall staff and facilities engineers. More services do not always lead to better student outcomes; simplicity is key. Building a three-tiered support network is essential for success. Design thinking is a practical approach to problem-solving in education. Finding your commu...

How do you show employers you've got what it takes? Ask ISC2's Casey Marks. 20.05.2025

ISC2 is the world's largest association of cybersecurity professionals. Credentials play a crucial role in career mobility and professional recognition. There is significant confusion between certificates and certifications. Certifications are time-limited and can be revoked for unethical behavior. Storytelling is essential in conveying the value of qualifications. Volunteering can provide valuabl...

Unlocking Career Growth: Insights from Season 2 06.05.2025

Confidence is betting on yourself. Work-life balance is impossible; strive for harmony. Clarity comes from taking action, not overthinking. Your first move doesn't have to be perfect. Leadership starts with vulnerability. Leaders create change, managers protect the status quo. Identify your unique strengths and lean into them. A good storyteller keeps an open mind. Look for what's missing in the w...

How do you ask the tough questions? Ask journalist Frank Sesno. 25.03.2025

Subscribe and Rate The Professionals on:  🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-professionals-podcast/id1702917735 🔊 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6aaJhFeLdcDWE4B4aSM2BY Or wherever you get your favorite podcasts. For comments , show ideas , or advertising opportunities visit our show page or email us: TheProfessionals@gwu.edu  Chapters Frank Sesno emphasizes the i...

How do you become an FBI and CIA agent? Ask Tracy Walder. 11.03.2025

Tracy Walder's career path includes roles in both the CIA and FBI. Many students self-select out of applying for intelligence jobs due to misconceptions. Soft skills are crucial for success in intelligence roles. The landscape of threats in national security is constantly evolving. Building trust is essential in intelligence gathering. The transition from CIA to FBI is not common but can happen. C...

How does disruption advance a career? Ask Charlene Li. 25.02.2025

Disruption is a constant in today's business landscape. Successful leaders must be willing to embrace change. Complacency can lead to missed opportunities for growth. Understanding customer needs is crucial for anticipating disruption. Southern New Hampshire University exemplifies effective disruption in education. Generative AI can be a powerful tool for professionals. Flexibility in strategy is...

How Do You Outthink Unthinkable Threats? Ask Bart E. Womack. 11.02.2025

PARENTAL ADVISORY: EXPLICIT CONTENT  This episode contains mature subjects. Listener discretion is advised. What does it take to stay one step ahead of a crisis—and how can those same skills help in any career? Hosts Amanda Gillespie and Luke Kasim talk with Bart Womack, a retired Command Sergeant Major and security expert, about insider threats, situational awareness, and leadership under pressur...

Want to learn how to build a sustainable city? Ask Peter Calthorpe. 28.01.2025

Peter's work is influenced by the counterculture of the 60s. Whole systems thinking is crucial for sustainable design. Energy-efficient buildings can enhance comfort and reduce environmental impact. Urban design requires a multidisciplinary approach. The American dream of suburban living is evolving post-2008. Transit-oriented development is essential for sustainable urban growth. Political suppor...

What does a rocket scientist think about career advancement? Ask Christyl Johnson.. 14.01.2025

takeaways Taking time for self-care is essential for productivity. NASA encourages creative thinking and innovation. Diversity leads to more innovative solutions. Overcoming imposter syndrome is crucial for success. Understanding your value is key to self-advocacy. Transforming challenges into opportunities can lead to growth. Mindset plays a significant role in overcoming obstacles. Unique contri...

How do the skills of a US diplomat translate to the professional world? Ask Belinda Jackson Farrier. 17.12.2024

Takeaways Vulnerability is a key trait for effective leadership. Cross-functional collaboration enhances problem-solving capabilities. Advocating for oneself is crucial in professional settings. Transitioning to entrepreneurship requires careful planning and support. Investing in personal well-being is essential for long-term success. Storytelling is a powerful tool in leadership and branding. Bui...

Did a forensics professor unmask the Zodiac Killer? Ask Tom Mauriello. 03.12.2024

Links Forensiq company site Reach out to Tom at tomm@forensiq-inc.com Tom on Linkedin ForensicWeek Webcast Takeaways Tom's journey into forensic science began with a graduate program at GW. Innovative training techniques include using doll-sized crime scenes. Internships are crucial for students to gain real-world experience. The Zodiac killer investigation highlights the challenges of cold cases....

The Secret to Career Success? Ask Author Alison Cardy. 19.11.2024

Episode Links Alison's  Career Coaching website: https://www.cardycareercoaching.com/ Alison on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alisoncardy Alison's latest book, Career Grease : https://www.cardycareercoaching.com/book/ Takeaways Career coaching can be categorized into three main types: career management, job searching, and soul searching. Soul searching is essential for individuals feeling...

Want to Create a Sustainable City? Talk to Todd Litman. 08.11.2024

Links Todd Litman:   LinkedIn   Victoria Transport Policy Institute   Show Notes Montreal is known for its affordability and artistic community. Affordable housing is crucial for cultural development. Cities should prioritize active transportation options. Todd Litman's journey into urban planning began with bicycle advocacy. Understanding the costs of automobile dependency is essential for urban...

Empowering Students at CPS: Access, Engagement, and Professional Growth 22.08.2024

In this episode of The Professionals Podcast, we're joined by Ms. Liesl Riddle, Dean of the College of Professional Studies (CPS). Over the past year, the College of Professional Studies has focused on raising awareness of its programs, strengthening existing offerings, and developing new ideas, all while forging vital partnerships with vendors and employment partners. A major highlight has been t...

From Performative to Authentic: Building Real DEI in Tech 25.07.2024

In this episode of The Professoinals Podcast, we're joined by Dmitry Korolev, a cyber security expert and an Advisory Board member at George Washington University's College of Professional Studies. This episode explores the intersection of identity, inclusion, and cybersecurity through a personal lens. Mr. Korolev discusses his journey from hiding his LGBTQ+ identity due to conservative cultural n...

Elevating Leadership: Insights from the Army Congressional Fellows Program 13.06.2024

In this episode, of The Professionals Podcast, we talk with Kathryn Yurkanin about the Army Congressional Fellows Program. Ms. Yurkanin is the Principal Deputy Chief, Legislative Liaison. The Principal Deputy provides guidance, supervision, and synchronization for the daily activities of the Office of the Chief Legislative Liaison. From joining a small ROTC program on a whim to navigating the intr...

Behind the Scenes: Supporting Student Success Beyond the Classroom 16.05.2024

In this episode of The Professionals Podcast, we are joined by Suzanne Farrand, the Assistant Dean of Students for the College of Professional Students. Suzanne highlights the distinctive characteristics of the student body, emphasizing the prevalence of part-time study due to existing job commitments. The discussion sheds light on the flexible learning modalities and the diverse geographical spre...

Building Community: Engaging Military Affiliated Students Across GW's Campuses 02.05.2024

In this episode of the Professionals Podcast, we delve into the comprehensive support system dedicated to military-connected students at George Washington University. From pre-admission inquiries about benefits to seamless transitions into campus life, Andrew Sonn, Ed. D. leads the Military and Veteran Student Services office at GW and is committed to ensuring a smooth journey for every individual...

Building Bridges Between Emerging Technologies and Policy: Insights from a Homeland Security Expert 21.03.2024

Learn more about Frontier Foundry and Executive Order 13960

An Unconventional Journey: From Retail to Data Visualization 07.03.2024

In this episode of The Professionals Podcast, we're joined by John Keegan, a faculty member that teaches Data Visualization at the College of Professional Studies. John shares his unconventional journey from a job in retail to a career in data analytics and data visualization. This episode tackles the broad scope of IT and John highlights its various specialties, including cybersecurity, data scie...

Navigating Publishing: A Stable Landscape of Continuous Change 22.02.2024

In this episode of The Professionals Podcast, we delve deep into the multifaceted world of publishing careers. Join us as we uncover invaluable insights from Mr. John Warren, Program Director and Associate Professor of the Publishing program at the College of Professional Studies. Professor Warren shares his personal journey and reveals the diverse paths that successful publishing professionals ha...

Navigating Urban Planning: From Capstone to Loudoun County 08.02.2024

In this podcast episode, Kristian Maldonado shares his amazing journey into the world of urban planning. Driven by a deep passion for cities and communities, Kristian initially pursued civil engineering until a career test pointed him towards urban planning at the University of Nevada. This revelation led Kristian to delve into the dynamic field of urban planning, challenging traditional suburban...

GW's Urban Planning Program: Nurturing Tomorrow's Climate Resilient Planners 26.12.2023

In this episode of The Professionals Podcast, we delve into the world of sustainable urban planning with Ms. Sandra Whitehead, Program Director, Sustainable Urban Planning Program at GW's College of Professional Studies. The conversation reflects on the dual purpose of building spaces for people and safeguarding the environment and economy for future generations. The discussion leads to a critical...

Your Appetite Comes With Eating: Lessons from a Lifelong Learner 12.12.2023

In this gripping episode of The Professionals Podcast, Mr. Bryan Carley shares his extraordinary journey from a tech-focused career to a life-altering health scare that prompted a profound shift. After a dire medical prognosis, Mr. Carley reevaluates his priorities, transitioning from technology implementation to combating financial crime. The pivotal moment on December 26th, 2013, becomes a catal...

Adapting to New Threats: Insights from the Field 28.11.2023

Welcome to The Professionals Podcast, where we explore the world of upskilling and continuing education for adult learners. On this episode, Luke Kasim and Amanda Gillespie have the privilege of talking to Elaine Lammert, the distinguished homeland security master's Program director. Elaine has had an illustrious career, spending nearly 29 years at the FBI, starting as a street agent and eventuall...

Listen to the The Professionals Podcast podcast in Replaio

Radio and podcasts in one app - free, with no sign-up. Install today and do not miss the launch

Get it on Google Play

Replaio is not a podcast publisher; show names, artwork and audio belong to their authors and are distributed through public RSS feeds.