People in Transition

Why you should listen to this episode:
If you’re about to graduate and feeling unsure about what’s next, this episode will help you turn uncertainty into a clear career plan — with someone who has been in your shoes and made bold moves that paid off.

About my guest:
Brianne Rush is the founder of The Independence Lab, a platform helping ambitious grads find clarity after college. Early in her career, she rose from intern to managing editor at Dance Spirit magazine in just a year, then advanced from employee to VP at Kuno Creative, a leading digital marketing agency working with brands like Aramark and BASF.

Her success came not from following the rules but from decoding unspoken workplace dynamics and challenging outdated career advice. Named one of the Top 50 Women Leaders of Ohio (2024) and featured in Forbes, SUCCESS, and Women We Admire, Brianne now helps young women navigate their careers with courage and confidence through The Independence Lab.

With nearly 20 years in marketing and operations, she’s led growth, built teams, and mentored countless young professionals—especially women making that tough leap from college to the real world.

What you will learn:
 

• Master the parts of your job search that actually move the needle.
• Stand out by showing you’re always leveling up, especially with AI and new skills.
• Transform everyday experiences into career stories that get noticed.
• Discover why emotional intelligence can tip the scales in your favor.
• Tackle tough interview questions with confidence and insight they won’t see coming.
• Grow your network through real connections, not generic outreach.

Brianne reminds us that confidence and curiosity are your best career tools.
 If you’re ready to stop doubting yourself and start designing your post-college path with purpose, you won’t want to miss this conversation.
 Connect with Brianne at LinkedIn or explore her work at theindependencelab.com/subscribe. 

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🎙️ People in Transition – Featuring Walter Sabrin

What do championship athletes and successful job seekers have in common? A short memory, a sharp mindset, and the ability to bounce back fast.

That’s just one of the powerful insights you’ll hear in my latest conversation with Walter Sabrin, Chief Talent Officer at Vensure Employer Solutions. Walter has built his career on people-first leadership—scaling talent strategies that fuel growth, innovation, and inclusion. From the tennis court to the boardroom, he’s mastered resilience, focus, and the art of unlocking human potential.

In this episode, Walter and I dive into ideas that could transform the way you approach your career and job search, including:

✅ Why both athletes and job seekers need to let go of setbacks quickly.
✅ How your personal brand is defined not by what you think—but by how others perceive you.
✅ Why networking only works when you give before you receive.
✅ The four job skills every effective candidate must build: confidence, curiosity, communication, and empathy.
✅ A surprising story of one candidate who landed a role by stepping way outside their comfort zone.
✅ How AI is already reshaping the job market—and what you should be doing to keep up.

Walter’s passion for mentoring, championing neurodiversity, and creating cultures of belonging shines through this conversation. You’ll walk away inspired—and equipped—with strategies to stand out in today’s competitive job market.

🔗 Connect with Walter on LinkedIn: Walter Sabrin (and mention this recording for his special attention).

💡 If you’re in transition and need help navigating your job search, don’t go it alone. Reach out to me directly—I’d love to support you on your journey.

👉 Download the episode today, and discover how to build the confidence, resilience, and strategy to land the career you deserve.

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This Week on People in Transition

We are excited to welcome Amy Adler, a nationally recognized expert in career strategy and executive branding. As President of Five Strengths Career Transition Experts, Amy has earned a reputation for guiding professionals through some of the most pivotal moments in their careers. Her expertise in creating powerful résumés and compelling career portfolios has helped countless clients stand out in highly competitive job markets.

 In our conversation, Amy shares practical strategies and real-world insights, including:

•  A client success story: how she helped someone move from hundreds of unanswered applications to applying to <10 jobs and earning interviews on 50% of his outreach, one of which yielded the right job offer—by focusing on what he really wanted and what he was really good at.
• Why LinkedIn is more than just a networking site—it’s a powerful research tool if you know how to use it.
• How being an introvert doesn’t mean being shy, and why clearly communicating your strengths is essential in a job search.
• The real purpose of informational interviews (and what they are not)—and how internal advocacy in the company you’re targeting is crucial.
• The importance of identifying exactly where you’re getting stuck in the job search process—rather than trying to “fix everything” (or, worse, the wrong thing).

 You can connect with Amy Adler on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amyladler/

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Are you job searching the wrong way?

In this episode of People in Transition, we’re thrilled to welcome Carlee Wolfe — a multi-certified HR Talent & Organization Development Executive who has helped organizations like Hyatt hotels, Under Armour, and the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee thrive. Carlee specializes in designing strategies that close talent gaps, solve organizational challenges, and support bold growth plans.

If you’ve been applying to job after job on LinkedIn and getting nowhere, this conversation will change the way you think about your job search. Carlee shares powerful insights for job seekers and career-minded professionals, including:

✅ Why over 15% of jobs posted on LinkedIn don’t even exist — and how to use clarity, confidence, and curiosity to focus on real opportunities.
✅ The simple step you must take before applying — defining what you really want so you can be intentional and save time.
✅ How to evaluate company culture before you accept an offer — and avoid joining a team that isn’t the right fit.
✅ What the sports world can teach us about careers — embracing mistakes, making pivots, and always moving the ball forward.
✅ Why curiosity is the key to long-term success — whether you’re job hunting or building your future in your current role.

🎧 This episode is a must-listen if you’re in transition or planning your next big move.

📩 For more information or to connect with Carlee:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/carleeawolfe

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Welcome to this episode of "People in Transition", the podcast that uncovers the real stories behind career change, reinvention, and personal growth.

Today, I’m thrilled to introduce Michelle Schafer, a recognized leader in career coaching who knows firsthand that life’s biggest disruptions can become your greatest opportunities. After experiencing two unexpected job losses, Michelle didn’t just bounce back—she redefined what success and fulfillment truly meant. Her journey revealed a powerful truth: when you take time to reflect and realign, you can build a career that energizes and sustains you.

Now, as one of Ottawa’s top career coaches—earning that distinction in both 2020 and 2024—Michelle brings a unique blend of empathy, insight, and practical strategy to help professionals navigate transitions with confidence. Whether you’re job hunting, changing industries, stepping into leadership, or simply asking “what’s next?”, Michelle’s approach helps people cut through uncertainty and move forward with clarity.

In this episode, we explore key insights from her award-winning book, “Cultivating Career Growth: Navigating Transition with Purpose,” including:

• Why having a clear career target and strategy is essential—and what happens when you don’t.
• How to normalize the rollercoaster of emotions during job transition—from excitement to anxiety, and everything in between.
• The truth about “rage applying”—what it is and why it rarely works.
• Why networking is your most powerful tool—and how to leverage the hidden connections in your circle.
• The importance of being “transition-ready” at all times—updating your resume, LinkedIn profile, and maintaining your professional network.
• How to overcome limiting beliefs and stay focused, even when the job search feels long and uncertain.

Connect with Michelle Schafer:

• LinkedIn: Michelle Schafer Coaching
• Website: mschafercoaching.ca
• Free Resources:
  • Download a free chapter from her book: Click here
  • Access the Career Focus Framework tool: Download here
• Order her award-winning, #1 best-selling book: Cultivating Career Growth
• Email: michelle@mschafercoaching.ca
• Book a complimentary 30-minute discovery call: Schedule here

Your challenge: After listening, put these strategies into action and let us know how they work for you. Remember, being in transition is temporary—clarity and confidence are within reach. And if you need extra support,  Michelle and I are ready to help you navigate the journey.

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If you're on the job hunt, considering a career change, or simply looking to elevate your professional brand, this is the podcast episode you don’t want to miss!
I’m thrilled to welcome Courtney Motyczka, a Certified Career Success Coach and Certified Resume Writer, to the show. With over seven years of experience helping job seekers successfully launch and transition their careers, Courtney brings a wealth of knowledge, practical advice, and motivational insights to the table. Her passion for career development is contagious, and she’s dedicated to helping people find fulfillment and confidence in their professional journeys.

With a background in higher education and technical training, Courtney has worked with thousands of individuals—coaching them through resume writing, job searches, interviews, and career transitions. She also holds a degree in Communication and Conflict, giving her a unique edge in helping job seekers refine their messaging, navigate tough conversations, and advocate for themselves with clarity and confidence. In this must-listen episode, we dive into game-changing career strategies, including: 

• Why job searching isn’t a solo journey—don’t be afraid to reach out for help! Lean on your network, seek mentorship, and open yourself up to opportunities through connection. 
• The power of networking—understanding the key differences between in-person networking and LinkedIn networking and why both are critical for career growth. 
• How to craft a standout resume—it’s not just about listing what you’ve done; it’s about showing how you did it and the impact you made. 
• Mastering interviews with confidence—why it’s okay to pause before answering, gather your thoughts, and communicate your value effectively. 
• Overcoming self-doubt—there’s a job out there for you. The key is believing in yourself and staying persistent in your search. 
• The importance of communication—how to own your professional story, articulate your value, and leave a strong impression on recruiters and hiring managers. 

This episode is jam-packed with actionable insights and career-boosting tips that will help you navigate your job search with confidence. Whether you're polishing your resume, preparing for interviews, or expanding your network, Courtney’s expert advice will help you get one step closer to landing your next great opportunity. 

Tune in now!  Remember to have a pen and paper ready—you’ll want to take notes on these invaluable knowledge nuggets!

If you’d like to connect with Courtney, be sure to reach out here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cmoty/. 

Your dream job is out there—go after it with confidence! 

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🌟Ready to flip your job search script? Welcome to the "People in Transition" podcast! Today’s episode is a must-listen as we sit down with the phenomenal Madeline Mann! 🌟

Madeline has completely revolutionized the job search process, helping thousands of professionals land career-defining roles. As the founder of Self Made Millennial and the upcoming author of "Reverse the Search," she has built an award-winning career coaching empire. Her unique approach empowers job seekers to break into competitive industries and land the right job—not just any job.

Feeling frustrated with countless applications leading nowhere?  Have dream roles slipped away before they even hit the job boards? Enter Madeline Mann! She teaches professionals how to become "Job Shoppers," utilizing a proactive strategy that gets them noticed by top employers before the competition even begins. Her methods have secured high-paying roles at Fortune 500 companies and earned her features in The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, ABC News, and a LinkedIn Top Voice distinction.

Madeline shares her insider strategies, the power of effective networking, and how you can attract career opportunities—sometimes even while you sleep. Here are a few key points we discussed:
- Aim higher: Applying for lower-level positions or jobs below your skill set can hinder your job search. Companies worry you will be bored and leave prematurely.
- Quality Over Quantity: Candidates should always think about the quality, not quantity, of applications.
- Intentional Career Choices: Your career direction is critical. Madeline outlines a method for making more intentional career decisions.
- Leverage LinkedIn: Ensure your LinkedIn profile communicates your brand effectively so that recruiters can find you.
- Engage on LinkedIn: You don’t have to be an original content creator, but commenting on others’ posts lets you "borrow" their audience and expand your reach.
- Consultative Approach: In interviews, use a consultative approach to gather information about the company, team, and role—not just answer their questions.
- Myth: Job security is a myth. Always network, keep your skills sharp, and be ready for any changes in your work status.

Join us for an informative and fun discussion with Madeline Mann. She has the answers you need to transform your job search and land the role you deserve. 🚀
Don't miss out on this game-changing episode! Tune in now and take the first step toward your dream career! 🎧  To reach Madeline, go to:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/madelinemann/

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Job searching? Career pivoting? Wondering how to stand out in today's market? You won’t want to miss this episode!

I had the pleasure of speaking with Angie Callen, a powerhouse in career strategy, personal branding, and professional growth. As the founder of Career Benders, she’s on a mission to help people break free from mediocrity and build careers they genuinely love.
Angie has a unique ability to blend business sense, marketing strategy, and career coaching into real, actionable advice. She’s helped countless professionals regain confidence, land leadership roles, and even take the leap into entrepreneurship. In a world where so many settle for "good enough," she challenges people to aim higher.

In our conversation, she shared game-changing insights: 

Be the solution, not just a list of skills—companies hire problem solvers. 

You don’t need 100% of the qualifications—if you match 70% and align culturally, go for it. 

AI won’t replace you, but someone who knows how to use AI will. 

LinkedIn is non-negotiable in today’s job search—if you're not leveraging it, you're missing out. 

Interview tip: Answer “Tell me about yourself” with where you’ve been, where you’re going, and why this job fits.

More than anything, Angie believes that everyone deserves to be happy in their careers. She’s dedicated to helping people see their worth—personally and professionally. Her perspective is a must-hear for anyone looking to level up and take control of their future.

Listen and walk away with powerful strategies to build the career you want.
Angie can be found at:
LinkedIn  - https://www.linkedin.com/in/angiecallen/
Web page - https://careerbenders.com/

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 Welcome to another insightful episode of the “People in Transition” podcast!

This week, we’re excited to feature Phil Davis, PHR—an Executive Career Coach, Recruiter, and, yes, Opera Singer! With his signature TUNE INTO™ process, Phil has empowered over 1,000 professionals to uncover their unique value and transform frustration into career fulPHILLment®. His dynamic career journey spans recruiting, HR, and coaching, where he has helped organizations save millions and guided individuals to clarity, confidence, and control in their careers.  Phil’s contagious energy and practical advice make job searching less daunting and more rewarding. From navigating corporate layoffs to building a thriving coaching practice, Phil’s insights will inspire you to amplify your impact and create the career you deserve.

Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode:
•  Networking isn’t one-and-done—it’s like a spider web: strategically built and actively maintained.
•  Overcome guilt and shame after job loss by leaning on a strong support system.
•  Showcase your personal brand authentically to stand out in today’s job market.
•  Ace interviews by tying every answer back to how you bring value to the company.
•  Leverage LinkedIn and social media strategically—one step at a time, and have fun doing it!

Connect with Phil:

 LinkedIn Profile - https://www.linkedin.com/in/phil-the-recruiter/
Instagram Profile - https://www.instagram.com/fulphillmentsolutions
Website: - https://www.fulphillment.com/

Your action steps: What’s your biggest job search challenge? After you listen to the episode, drop your questions or comments below.  Please don’t forget to share this episode with your connections. Let’s help more people find their path to fulPHILLment®!

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