Advertise on podcast: Career Coaching with Jessness

We're continuing the maternity leave / workplace fun with today's episode where I share practical tips and compassionate strategies for managers on how they can support employees returning from maternity leave. When managers and company's support women returning to work, they won't just have a dedicated worker but a loyal employee for life. BE NICE TO MOMS. By the time they get to work they've already done 82 things. If you are a working mom, come hang out on Substack: MOMHOOD: https://gazay.substack.com/ National Working Mother's Week is this week! (Sept 21 - 25): https://www.motheredmedia.com/national-working-motherhood-week My books: Thank You for Dumping Me: A Memoir, Self-Discovery Guide, and Novel - https://amzn.to/4anyh57YOUR TWENTIES: No one ever teaches you how to grow up, ya know? - https://amzn.to/40nQoU3 This episode is brought to you by MOMHOOD, on substack. Exploring the vast ways birthing someone, births you. Tune in: https://gazay.substack.com/

What up! In this episode, I share what I'm coining as my "work report card!" A new series where I share how the journey back to work after maternity leave is going. Tune in to explore the emotional, physical, and environmental challenges I faced. Plus, my insights on the key areas that companies, managers, and coworkers forget about moms returning to the workplace. If you are a mom returning to work, thinking about it, planning for it, or in the thick of it - I SEE YOU. YOU ARE NOT MISUNDERSTOOD HERE. And I am ROOTING FOR YOU w/ ALL MY HEART. Yes, all caps are necessary! Highlights: The emotional and physical impact of separation from your babyEnvironmental changes and discomfort in the workplaceIdentity shifts and personal transformation post-maternity leaveThe importance of support and understanding from colleagues and managersResearch on skills gained from motherhood that benefit workThe experience of feeling out of place and the time warp effectThe significance of community and shared experiences in motherhood Episode sound bites: Returning to work after maternity leave is an ongoing, evolving process.Support from colleagues and managers is crucial for a smooth transition.Motherhood brings significant identity shifts that are often unseen.Physical separation from the child can be emotionally and physically taxing.Research shows moms return with enhanced operational skills.Sharing experiences helps reduce feelings of isolation and guilt.Preparation, support, and understanding can ease the return process. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and overview of the return to work journey 01:54 The emotional and physical impact of separation from the child 04:10 Research on skills moms gain from maternity leave 06:04 Environmental challenges and discomfort in the workplace 07:56 Identity changes and personal transformation 09:46 Mom guilt, anxiety, and the pressure to perform 12:03 The experience of feeling out of place and the time warp effect 13:57 Strategies for managing the return and seeking support 16:13 The importance of community and shared experiences 18:05 Reflections on the journey and future outlook If this interests you, come hang out on Substack: MOMHOOD: https://gazay.substack.com/ National Working Mother's Week, learn more and register (Sept 21 - 25): https://www.motheredmedia.com/national-working-motherhood-week My books: Thank You for Dumping Me: A Memoir, Self-Discovery Guide, and Novel - https://amzn.to/4anyh57YOUR TWENTIES: No one ever teaches you how to grow up, ya know? - https://amzn.to/40nQoU3 This episode is brought to you by MOMHOOD, on substack. Exploring the vast ways birthing someone, births you. Tune in: https://gazay.substack.com/

In this episode, I respond to me at 39-weeks pregnant (from last podcast, episode 19) and share the real real of how maternity leave went down. I cover my postpartum journey...the identity shifts, fears, personal insights, challenges, and the deep transformation that comes with motherhood. (And I'm only 6 months out, WOW)   If this interests you, come hang out on Substack: MOMHOOD: https://gazay.substack.com/   Key Topics Postpartum identity shiftsFear and vulnerability in new motherhoodImpact of societal expectations on new momsBody image and self-worth postpartumCommunity and support systems for mothersThe emotional rollercoaster of postpartum mood swingsRedefining productivity and self-valueThe importance of self-compassion in motherhood My books: Thank You for Dumping Me: A Memoir, Self-Discovery Guide, and Novel - https://amzn.to/4anyh57YOUR TWENTIES: No one ever teaches you how to grow up, ya know? - https://amzn.to/40nQoU3 This episode is brought to you by MOMHOOD, on substack. Exploring the vast ways birthing someone, births you. Tune in: https://gazay.substack.com/

In this episode, I'm 39 weeks pregnant, reflecting on how I plan to approach maternity leave. I share the fears and feelings coming up for me and the intentions and mindsets I plan to take with me into this phase. Expect to hear reflections on: 1. Anticipation and the Unknown 2. Downshifting Without Losing Your Edge 3. Understanding the Source of Fear 4. Redefining Your Edge 5. Reframing Maternity Leave Highlights: - Anticipation of motherhood can bring excitement and fear. - Downshifting energy does not mean losing your sense of self. - Understanding the source of fear is crucial in navigating transitions. - Redefining your edge involves embracing adaptability and intuition. - Reframing maternity leave can transform it into a powerful growth experience. If this interests you, come hang out on Substack: MOMHOOD: https://gazay.substack.com/   My books: Thank You for Dumping Me: A Memoir, Self-Discovery Guide, and Novel - https://amzn.to/4anyh57YOUR TWENTIES: No one ever teaches you how to grow up, ya know? - https://amzn.to/40nQoU3 This episode is brought to you by MOMHOOD, on substack. Exploring the vast ways birthing someone, births you. Tune in: https://gazay.substack.com/

In this episode, I discuss my career journey and the various actions that have contributed to my growth. You'll hear me emphasize the importance of pursuing passion projects, leveraging side gigs, seeking feedback, and maintaining a positive mindset. We'll talk: exploring career opportunities and the significance of self-reflection in professional development. You know it all comes back to self-discovery over here ;) Checkout some episode sound bites: Your career does not need to fulfill all your hopes and dreams.Passion projects can be started without waiting for permission.Talking about your interests can lead to unexpected career opportunities. Asking for feedback regularly accelerates personal growth.Mindset is crucial; small changes can have a big impact.Don't put authority figures on pedestals; treat them as equals.Invest in your development and ask for reimbursement when possible.Exploring other departments can provide valuable insights.Self-reflection is key to understanding your career satisfaction.Prioritize impactful actions to avoid burnout. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Career Growth and Development 01:52 The Importance of Passion Projects 05:16 Leveraging Side Gigs for Career Advancement 09:10 Investing in Personal Development 13:01 Challenging Authority and Building Confidence 15:52 Proactive Feedback Seeking 17:43 Mindset and Affirmations in the Workplace 20:26 Exploring Career Opportunities and Self-Reflection Access my Career Success Guides & Monthly Work in Progress Bulletin: https://www.jessnessrequired.com/links Q for you: Rate a career move you've taken 1 - 10 and share it with me! DM me your answer: https://instagram.com/hellojessness/ Connect: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jsmith161/Sign up for my monthly 'Work in Progress' Bulletin: https://www.jessnessrequired.com/newsletter This episode is brought to you by my book ‘Thank You for Dumping Me’ — a book about a blindsided breakup turned personal growth opportunity. It’s raw and real, with witty humor and a lot of heart! Let’s rebrand breakups from something to be feared to opportunities for growth and self-discovery. Get yourself a copy today: https://www.jessnessrequired.com/order My books: Thank You for Dumping Me: A Memoir, Self-Discovery Guide, and Novel - https://amzn.to/4anyh57 YOUR TWENTIES: No one ever teaches you how to grow up, ya know? - https://amzn.to/40nQoU3

In this episode, I give you 10 career cheat codes to help you grow faster, stand out, and stop playing small at work. If you want rapid career growth, are going for a promotion, and want to be more confident at work, this is for you. We run through them one after another with no fluff in between, so hit play and start implementing today. Some bites from the episode: Assign yourself deadlines publicly and consistently meet them.Use public settings to establish trust.Follow up with emails that outline promises and deadlines.Building trust is essential for professional growth.Cross-functional meetings can enhance visibility and accountability.Expand your professional network.Accountability leads to greater career opportunities. Access my Career Success Guides & Monthly Work in Progress Bulletin: https://www.jessnessrequired.com/links Q for you: Which cheat code is your favorite? DM me your answer: https://instagram.com/hellojessness/ Connect: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jsmith161/Sign up for my monthly 'Work in Progress' Bulletin: https://www.jessnessrequired.com/newsletter This episode is brought to you by my ‘Brain Dates’ — where we figure out your next move together on a variety of topics. You can learn more on her website: https://www.jessnessrequired.com/work-with-me My books: Thank You for Dumping Me: A Memoir, Self-Discovery Guide, and Novel - https://amzn.to/4anyh57 YOUR TWENTIES: No one ever teaches you how to grow up, ya know? - https://amzn.to/40nQoU3

Continuing the series on ChatGPT, today I share 3 more tips on how to use it to be a better employee. You will see just how messy these prompts can be. I share verbatim what prompts I used for three more use cases - using chatGPT: To prep for a tough conversationPerformance evalsAs a thought partner Access my Career Success Guides & Monthly Work in Progress Bulletin: https://www.jessnessrequired.com/links Q for you: How are you using chatGPT these days? DM me your answer: https://instagram.com/hellojessness/ Connect: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jsmith161/Sign up for my monthly 'Work in Progress' Bulletin: https://www.jessnessrequired.com/newsletter This episode is brought to you by my ‘Brain Dates’ — where we figure out your next move together on a variety of topics. You can learn more on her website: https://www.jessnessrequired.com/work-with-me My books: Thank You for Dumping Me: A Memoir, Self-Discovery Guide, and Novel - https://amzn.to/4anyh57 YOUR TWENTIES: No one ever teaches you how to grow up, ya know? - https://amzn.to/40nQoU3

Let’s be real, work is moving fast, and if you’re not using tech to work smarter, you’re doing too much. In this episode of Career Coaching with Jessness, we’re continuing the AI and ChatGPT series with three more tips today. This month is all about AI, both podcast episodes focus on maximizing how you use AI and how to use ChatGPT as a powerful tool for professional growth. (As always) I’m sharing practical, no-fluff tips you can actually use to sharpen your skills, boost your effectiveness, and make a real impact at work no matter your role or industry. Access my Career Success Guides & Monthly Work in Progress Bulletin: https://www.jessnessrequired.com/links Q for you: What tip shared today is your fav? DM me your answer: https://instagram.com/hellojessness/ Connect: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jsmith161/Sign up for my monthly 'Work in Progress' Bulletin: https://www.jessnessrequired.com/newsletter This episode is brought to you by my ‘Brain Dates’ — where we figure out your next move together on a variety of topics. You can learn more on her website: https://www.jessnessrequired.com/work-with-me My books: Thank You for Dumping Me: A Memoir, Self-Discovery Guide, and Novel - https://amzn.to/4anyh57 YOUR TWENTIES: No one ever teaches you how to grow up, ya know? - https://amzn.to/40nQoU3

​Anyone who knows me KNOWS I love job interviews, but in order to practice the art of interviewing? You have to land the interview!  ​Applying for jobs can feel like a full-time job in itself, and getting no's or just not hearing back after putting in the work to apply can be so frustrating. In this episode we talk about why you're not being invited to interview. ​I share from ​m​y extensive experience in recruiting​ and outline the top ten reasons for this phenomenon, including failing pre-screen questions, misalignment between hiring managers and recruiters, and the importance of personal branding on platforms like LinkedIn.  ​ Nothing is going to beat persistence in the job application process​, so keep going!! That, mixed with the practical tips​ here will enhance ​y​our chances of success. ​H​it the Highlights 00:00 Introduction to Career Coaching and Job Hunting 03:21 Top 10 Reasons You're Not Getting Interviews 17:14 Bonus Tips for Job Hunting and Building Your Brand Access my Career Success Guides & Monthly Work in Progress Bulletin: https://www.jessnessrequired.com/links Connect: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jsmith161/Sign up for my monthly 'Work in Progress' Bulletin: https://www.jessnessrequired.com/newsletter This episode is brought to you by my book ‘Thank You for Dumping Me’ — a book about a blindsided breakup turned personal growth opportunity. It’s raw and real, with witty humor and a lot of heart! Let’s rebrand breakups from something to be feared to opportunities for growth and self-discovery. Get yourself a copy today: https://www.jessnessrequired.com/order My books: Thank You for Dumping Me: A Memoir, Self-Discovery Guide, and Novel - https://amzn.to/4anyh57 YOUR TWENTIES: No one ever teaches you how to grow up, ya know? - https://amzn.to/40nQoU3

Let's chat about job interviews! This is one of my FAV career topics. There is an art to interviewing, and everyone can get better at it when you know how to prep, how to connect the dots for the person you are interviewing with, how to answer questions effectively, and what to do with the follow-up after the interview is over. Hit the Highlights Interviewing is a two-way street, akin to professional dating.Candidates should assess the company just as much as they are assessed.The art of interviewing involves connecting skills with personal experiences.Hiring is influenced by both what you do and who you are.Effective communication is key in interviews.Candidates should help interviewers understand their unique experiences.It's important to match your skills with the role effectively.The experience of working with a candidate matters to employers.Personal branding plays a crucial role in the hiring process.Understanding employer expectations can enhance interview success. Access my Career Success Guides & Monthly Work in Progress Bulletin: https://www.jessnessrequired.com/links Q for you: What is most challenging for you when it comes to job interviews? DM me your answer: https://instagram.com/hellojessness/ Connect: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jsmith161/Sign up for my monthly 'Work in Progress' Bulletin: https://www.jessnessrequired.com/newsletter This episode is brought to you by my book ‘Thank You for Dumping Me’ — a book about a blindsided breakup turned personal growth opportunity. It’s raw and real, with witty humor and a lot of heart! Let’s rebrand breakups from something to be feared to opportunities for growth and self-discovery. Get yourself a copy today: https://www.jessnessrequired.com/order My books: Thank You for Dumping Me: A Memoir, Self-Discovery Guide, and Novel - https://amzn.to/4anyh57YOUR TWENTIES: No one ever teaches you how to grow up, ya know? - https://amzn.to/40nQoU3

In this episode, I share my end-of-year rituals that help me wrap up 2025 and how I look forward with intention every new year, hello 2026! We'll touch on my Radiant Life Framework, year-in-review/vision-casting practice, and how I incorporate feng shui. We're gearing up to birth our baby girl come this Jan, but the pod will still rock on. What's to come? Jan: Interview Strategies / The Art of Interviewing Feb: AI and how to partner with it to be a better employee / More efficient Mar: Career Advancement Strategies April: Maternity Insights, Reflections and the Corporate World I also share, here for the first time ever, my latest creation, the "Self-Discovery Journal" full of 30 life-experiments to support you in connecting to your inner voice of wisdom. I've been secretly working on this and it's currently in review with my publisher. So excited to share this with you! Stay tuned. 00:00 Reflecting on the Year: A Personal Journey 00:00 Setting Intentions for the New Year 00:22 Reflecting on 2025: A Year-End Wrap-Up 02:11 The Year in Review: Collage of Memories 05:36 Vision Casting: Setting Intentions for 2026 11:18 Rituals and Symbols: Feng Shui and Amulets 13:39 Looking Ahead: Upcoming Podcast Themes and Projects Access my Career Success Guides & Monthly Work in Progress Bulletin: https://www.jessnessrequired.com/links Q for you: What end of year rituals / practices do you enjoy? DM me your answer: https://instagram.com/hellojessness/ Connect: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jsmith161/Sign up for my monthly 'Work in Progress' Bulletin: https://www.jessnessrequired.com/newsletter This episode is brought to you by my book ‘Thank You for Dumping Me’ — a book about a blindsided breakup turned personal growth opportunity. It’s raw and real, with witty humor and a lot of heart! Let’s rebrand breakups from something to be feared to opportunities for growth and self-discovery. Get yourself a copy today: https://www.jessnessrequired.com/order My books: Thank You for Dumping Me: A Memoir, Self-Discovery Guide, and Novel - https://amzn.to/4anyh57 YOUR TWENTIES: No one ever teaches you how to grow up, ya know? - https://amzn.to/40nQoU3

If you are not asking questions to hiring managers, recruiters, or team members you are interviewing with for a new job...you are missing out. Let's talk about it. Hit the Highlights There's an art to all this interviewing stuff - this episode will unpack a key element of thatRemember, you are dating the job opportunity, the company, the team just as much as they are assessing you - be picky, find what you want! Make sure it's a good fit!Interviewing is not just about your skills, but also about expressing who you are.Your resume gets you in the door, but who you are carries you through. Access my Career Success Guides & Monthly Work in Progress Bulletin: https://www.jessnessrequired.com/links Q for you: What's your fav question to ask a hiring manager during an interview? DM me your answer: https://instagram.com/hellojessness/ Connect: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jsmith161/Sign up for my monthly 'Work in Progress' Bulletin: https://www.jessnessrequired.com/newsletter This episode is brought to you by my book ‘Thank You for Dumping Me’ — a book about a blindsided breakup turned personal growth opportunity. It’s raw and real, with witty humor and a lot of heart! Let’s rebrand breakups from something to be feared to opportunities for growth and self-discovery. Get yourself a copy today: https://www.jessnessrequired.com/order My books: Thank You for Dumping Me: A Memoir, Self-Discovery Guide, and Novel - https://amzn.to/4anyh57 YOUR TWENTIES: No one ever teaches you how to grow up, ya know? - https://amzn.to/40nQoU3

In this episode, I share how I prepped for my promotion before heading out on mat leave. This step-by-step strategy applies to you if you are navigating a promotion as your next career step or looking to advance your career to the next level...whether maternity leave is on your horizon or not. Disclaimer: I haven't landed the promotion and don't know the outcome...fingers crossed ;) Tune in to this episode for practical tips for setting yourself up for a promotion. I also touch on the importance of somatic practices to build confidence and manage stress during times of transition. Hit the Highlights 00:00 Navigating Transitions and Career Growth 03:24 Preparing for Promotion During Maternity Leave 08:58 Advocating for Yourself in the Workplace 12:14 Documenting Achievements for Career Advancement 16:37 Building Visibility 19:28 Proactive Promotion Strategies 21:53 Understanding Managerial Mindsets 24:15 Embracing Visibility and Confidence 26:40 Final Thoughts on Self-Advocacy Access my Career Success Guides & Monthly Work in Progress Bulletin: https://www.jessnessrequired.com/links Q for you: Share a takeaway from this episode. Answer: DM me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/hellojessness/ Connect: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jsmith161/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hellojessness This episode is brought to you by my book ‘Thank You for Dumping Me’ — a book about a blindsided breakup turned personal growth opportunity. It’s raw and real, with witty humor and a lot of heart! Let’s rebrand breakups from something to be feared to opportunities for growth and self-discovery. Get yourself a copy today: https://www.jessnessrequired.com/order My books: Thank You for Dumping Me: A Memoir, Self-Discovery Guide, and Novel - https://amzn.to/4anyh57 YOUR TWENTIES: No one ever teaches you how to grow up, ya know? - https://amzn.to/40nQoU3

This week, we talk writing, self-discovery, the power of partnership, my next big leap in life, and a special gift for you...all through the lens of gratitude. Thank you for being here. I am grateful for you! Hit the Highlights Gratitude week encourages deep reflection on the past year.Writing is a powerful tool for self-discoveryThere's nothing better for an author than to hear from a readerSelf-discovery is essential for making empowered decisionsSupportive relationships provide a foundation for personal growthCelebrating new life fosters community and joyWe can't outsource self-discovery to astrology, human design or AI - this causes confusion Access my Career Success Guides & Monthly Work in Progress Bulletin: https://www.jessnessrequired.com/links Q for you: What are you grateful for? Answer: DM me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/hellojessness/ Connect for more Content: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jsmith161/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hellojessness This episode is brought to you by my book ‘Thank You for Dumping Me’ — a book about a blindsided breakup turned personal growth opportunity. It’s raw and real, with witty humor and a lot of heart! Let’s rebrand breakups from something to be feared to opportunities for growth and self-discovery. Get yourself a copy today: https://www.jessnessrequired.com/order My books: Thank You for Dumping Me: A Memoir, Self-Discovery Guide, and Novel - https://amzn.to/4anyh57YOUR TWENTIES: No one ever teaches you how to grow up, ya know? - https://amzn.to/40nQoU3

This conversation is designed to help you feel empowered during your year-end performance evaluation. You’ll learn how to build a strong relationship with your manager and turn any fear or anxiety into a positive, productive experience. I share specific tips for navigating your evaluation effectively, improving your communication, and making the process smoother and more rewarding for both you and your manager. Hit the highlights: Transform fear into empowerment during evaluations.Make the evaluation process feel good for everyone.Build stronger relationships with your manager.Effective communication is key to evaluations.Navigate year-end processes with confidence.Empower yourself in performance reviews.Create a positive evaluation experience.End-of-year evaluations can be empowering.Specific tips for your relationship with your manager. Acces my Career Success Guides & Monthly Work in Progress Bulletin: https://www.jessnessrequired.com/links Q for you: What's your best tip for prepping for year-end reviews? Answer: DM me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/hellojessness/ Connect: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jsmith161/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hellojessness This episode is brought to you by my ‘Brain Dates’ — where we figure out your next move together on a variety of topics. You can learn more on her website: https://www.jessnessrequired.com/work-with-me My books: Thank You for Dumping Me: A Memoir, Self-Discovery Guide, and Novel - https://amzn.to/4anyh57 YOUR TWENTIES: No one ever teaches you how to grow up, ya know? - https://amzn.to/40nQoU3