WTF Is Up?

Christian Garcia has built a career helping young people build theirs. He shares his incredible journey and his insights on the evolving job market and the enduring value of college. This conversation offers practical advice for recent graduates, educators, and anyone navigating career transitions amidst rapid change. Summary : The episode underscores the importance of adaptability, lifelong learn...

For-profit, not-for-profit, for-impact...What's the difference anymore? We talk with former edtech exec and founder Matt Haldeman about building a cross-sector career, entrepreneurship pro tips, and whether non-profit products can be monetized. Summary : In this episode, Matt shares insights on leveraging capital in the non-profit space, managing career pivots, and blending mission with financial...

A behind-the-scenes look at the state of corporate recruiting and the hiring outlook for new grads and old grads alike! Summary: In this episode of "WTF is Up," Jeremy and Omar chat with William Chichester, a seasoned talent acquisition leader with 20 years of experience across industries from Target to Peloton. William shares insider insights on university recruiting, market trends, and practical...

Real talk with longtime tech and nonprofit exec Nicole McNamara about job success, job loss, job security, job searching, and jobs as identity. Summary Omar and Nicole discuss her 25-year career journey, navigating corporate leadership, career pivots, and the emotional impact of job loss. She offers practical advice on self-awareness, storytelling, and adapting to the rapidly changing future of wo...

The cheat code for how professionals—and job seekers—can find success in an AI-driven world. (Spoiler: It’s all goes back to humans.) Summary Takeaways AI is changing job roles, especially entry-level and technical positions. There are four key skills you need amidst these changes. Leveling up your skills involves mastering human connection, AI integration, and building support networks. Show, don...

Let’s hack work! Tips for getting ahead in a job (and getting the job in the first place), getting noticed, and getting in good with the people that matter most. About this episode: Summary In this episode, Omar and Jeremy discuss work hacks that can help individuals navigate their careers more effectively. They emphasize the importance of working smarter rather than harder, building relationships...

From AI bubbles and slop to economic and job market roller coasters, WTF did we all just live through in 2025? And what's in store for 2026? About this episode: Summary In this episode, Jeremy and Omar reflect on the significant events of 2025, discussing economic trends, the impact of AI, the rise of entrepreneurship, and the challenges faced by tech giants. They also explore cultural shifts and...

Is the MBA still the golden ticket for the best jobs? How is the employment landscape changing (and how is AI changing that landscape)? How can MBAs--and business schools themselves--stay relevant? Special guest Kay Dawson, career expert and Assistant Dean at the University of Washington's Foster School of Business, weighs in! About this episode: Summary In this episode of WTF is Up?, hosts Jeremy...

Sports in America: opiate of the masses? Or an increasingly rare and precious multi-cultural institution? What our rabid fandom, passionate participation, and dollars invested (wasted?) say about us. About this episode: Summary In this episode, Omar and Jeremy delve into the ​deep and intricate relationship between ​the cultures of sports and America itself. They explore the exponential growth of...

Are we in a new tech bubble? Are AI companies actually all about circularity instead of singularity? Two tech veterans explore the sector's new realities: Profits vs. purpose, outsize cultural and political influence, jobless growth, the great hesitation--and what you can actually do about all of it if you want to work in tech...or keep your job in tech! About this episode: Summary In this episode...

Boys who struggle become men who struggle. How can we update cultural norms and educational systems--and our own personal habits--in support of a more positive and productive version of masculinity? (*Disclosure: We are men.) About this episode: Summary Jeremy Schifeling and Omar Garriott explore the pressing issues surrounding boys and men in contemporary society. They discuss the alarming statis...

Career starters are having a hard time...getting their careers started. What's driving this--and what can Gen Z job seekers DO about it? About this episode: Summary This episode explores the challenges Gen Z faces in the job market, focusing on high unemployment and underemployment rates, the impact of AI on job availability, and the shift towards skills-based hiring. It also discusses gender dyna...

Part 2 of getting practical and tactical about entrepreneurship! Frameworks for founders, what AI means for entrepreneurs, whether to pursue VC, and whether hustle culture is dead. About this episode: Summary In this episode, Jeremy and Omar delve into the world of entrepreneurship, discussing frameworks, principles, and the impact of AI. They explore the realities of venture capital, the importan...

Entrepreneurship is all the rage. But why? And how can startups and small businesses increase their chances of success? About this episode: Summary In this episode, Jeremy and Omar explore the current landscape of entrepreneurship, discussing the significant rise in entrepreneurial activity, especially among younger generations. They delve into the realities of starting a business, the importance...

From cheating to bots as BFFs, is it inevitable that kids will use AI to shortcut through life? How might we flip the script and maybe even co-parent alongside AI? About this episode: Summary Jeremy and Omar explore the intersection of AI and parenting, discussing the potential benefits and drawbacks of AI tools in the parenting process. They share personal anecdotes, insights on the future of edu...

During our lifetimes, college has been THE ticket to upward mobility. Now, the majority of young people are opting out. What's up with college in the year 2025? What's it for, who's it for, and how else can you upskill to create a better life? About this episode: Summary Omar and Jeremy explore the evolving landscape of higher education, questioning the value of a college degree in today's job mar...

The unemployment rate remains at a generational low...but it doesn't FEEL like it. Where did all the jobs go, how much is AI to blame, and, most importantly, WTF can you DO about all of this? About this episode: Summary Jeremy Schifeling and Omar Garriott explore the complexities of the current job market, particularly for new graduates. They discuss the paradox of low unemployment rates amidst wi...