Advertise on podcast: Your Employment Matters with Beverly Williams

Beverly Williams welcomes multidisciplinary creator, author, visual artist, and technology professional Cootchill Nelson for a wide-ranging conversation about career growth, creativity, opportunity, and the importance of developing your own perspective. Cootchill’s career doesn’t fit neatly into one box. His experience spans information technology, photography, filmmaking, songwriting, literature, and visual storytelling. Today, he works in image quality at Google while also preparing to launch the Storytellers Agency, a production company built around bringing creative expertise and storytelling to a broader community. His path is a reminder that careers don’t always have to follow a straight line. Skills developed in one industry can become valuable in another, and interests that once seemed separate can eventually come together in unexpected ways. Key Points Pay attention to opportunities. Opportunities don’t always announce themselves clearly. When something unexpected comes your way, take time to consider it instead of automatically saying no. A missed opportunity may not come around again. Perspective can change how you navigate life and work. Cootchill believes perspective is one of the most valuable things a person can develop. Reading, observing others, listening, experiencing different environments, and even spending quiet time alone can help you see situations differently. It’s okay to create your own path. Resist the pressure to simply follow the crowd. Standing out, pursuing different interests, and trusting your instincts can lead you toward work and a life that fit you better. Education doesn’t have to mean a four-year degree. Beverly and Cootchill discuss the value of skilled trades, technical schools, community colleges, and other career paths. With college costs and student debt continuing to be concerns, people should consider multiple ways to build valuable skills and earning potential. Multiple income streams can create more options. Developing different skills, pursuing entrepreneurial opportunities, and finding ways to generate income beyond one traditional job can provide greater flexibility. Choose business partners carefully. Friendship and family relationships don’t automatically make someone a good business partner. Trustworthiness, reliability, and the ability to follow through matter when you’re building something together. Protect your capacity. Beverly’s mantra, “save yourself,” reflects the importance of boundaries. Helping others is valuable, but you also have to manage your own responsibilities, energy, and goals so you don’t become overwhelmed. Stay informed and be prepared to shift. Changes in industries, technology, workplaces, and even conversations on social media can provide early clues about what’s coming. Beverly encourages people to keep reading, listening, and paying attention so they can adapt rather than being caught off guard. Cootchill is also developing a writing project called Perspectives, centered on the idea that understanding different viewpoints can affect everything from relationships and self-confidence to professional decisions. Sometimes gaining that perspective requires doing less, not more. Taking a walk, sitting quietly, or allowing yourself to be bored for a few minutes can create room to process ideas that otherwise get buried in the noise. Ultimately, the conversation comes back to intentionality. Careers are rarely effortless, and success doesn’t require following the same path as everyone else. It requires paying attention, putting in the work, recognizing opportunities, protecting what you’re building, and being willing to trust yourself when your path looks different from the crowd. As Cootchill puts it, his goal is to keep trying new things now so he doesn’t look back decades from now wishing he’d taken more chances. It’s a useful reminder for anyone navigating today’s employment landscape: keep your eyes and ears open, stay curious, and don’t be afraid to build a path that’s uniquely yours. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Success doesn't come from simply earning a degree, landing a job, or setting an ambitious goal. It comes from developing the skills, mindset, and personal accountability needed to turn opportunities into results. On this episode of Your Employment Matters, Beverly Williams talks with Dr. Peter Andersen, author, publisher, speaker, former school superintendent, and author of The Three Secret Skills of Top Performers: Powerful Lessons in Transformational Leadership. Drawing on his experiences in education, business, coaching, and leadership, Dr. Andersen shares his perspective on preparing young people and adults for long-term success. Their conversation explores the many paths available after high school and why a traditional four-year college degree isn't the only route to a rewarding career. Trade schools, community colleges, military service, entrepreneurship, and other forms of specialized training can all provide strong opportunities when they're paired with the right skills and work ethic. Key Points College isn't the only path to success. Dr. Andersen encourages families to consider community colleges, trade schools, apprenticeships, military service, and other options based on a person's talents, interests, and career goals. Education should be approached strategically. Starting at a community college can significantly reduce the cost of earning a degree while allowing students to complete transferable general education courses. Skills matter as much as credentials. Beverly and Dr. Andersen emphasize that career advancement requires knowledge, training, experience, and strong communication skills. Wanting a leadership position isn't enough. You have to develop the qualifications to earn it. Work ethic has to be learned and practiced. Success often looks easy from the outside, but meaningful achievement requires consistent effort. Young people benefit from learning early that their choices, preparation, and effort have consequences. Personal accountability is essential. Instead of blaming teachers, coworkers, teammates, or circumstances when something goes wrong, Dr. Andersen encourages people to evaluate what they could've done differently and use that information to improve. Career exploration should begin before college. High school can be an important time for students to identify their talents, abilities, and skills and begin connecting those strengths with potential careers. That exploration can also help students avoid costly changes in direction later. Multiple income streams can provide greater security. Beverly points out that developing more than one marketable skill or source of income can provide options when employment circumstances change. Critical thinking matters in an information-heavy world. With so much information available through social media and other sources, people need the knowledge and critical-thinking skills to recognize misinformation, understand bias, and make informed decisions. Dr. Andersen also explains the three skills at the heart of his approach to transformational leadership and performance: increasing awareness, enhancing self-evaluation, and connecting reward with reinforcement. Awareness means paying attention and understanding what makes new information meaningful and relevant. Self-evaluation means assessing yourself before, during, and after a performance instead of waiting until something goes wrong. Connecting reward with reinforcement means recognizing the positive results that encourage productive behaviors to continue. These skills can be applied to what Dr. Andersen describes as four major areas of life: jobs, tasks, skills, and relationships. When people learn to use the three skills together, they can continually evaluate their performance, make adjustments, and build on their successes. Throughout the conversation, Beverly and Dr. Andersen return to one central idea: there are many routes to a successful career, but none of them eliminate the need to do the work. Whether someone chooses college, a skilled trade, military service, entrepreneurship, or another path, success requires preparation, accountability, communication, continuous learning, and a willingness to develop useful skills. For parents, educators, students, and professionals alike, the goal isn't simply to choose the "right" path. It's to develop the mindset and abilities that make it possible to succeed wherever that path leads. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Your Employment Matters, Beverly Williams welcomes Dr. Lisa Patierne, leadership speaker, trainer, former school principal, and author of The Meatball Mindset: How to Roll with Life, Lead with Heart, and Thrive Under Pressure. Drawing on more than three decades in education and leadership, Dr. Lisa shares powerful insights on resilience, self-worth, leadership, and the importance of supporting those who spend their lives serving others. Key Points Dr. Lisa's journey began with a lifelong dream of becoming a teacher. Despite personal challenges and setbacks, including becoming the first in her family to attend college, she stayed committed to her purpose and eventually built a successful career in education and leadership. After years as a teacher, assistant principal, and principal, Dr. Lisa recognized the tremendous pressure faced by educators, first responders, healthcare professionals, social workers, and other service-oriented leaders. This realization led her to dedicate her work to helping those who protect, serve, and care for others. The "Meatball Mindset" is built on the idea that life hands everyone ingredients they didn't ask for. Success comes from learning how to work with those circumstances, adapt, and continue moving forward while maintaining compassion and authenticity. How many high achievers struggle with self-worth, imposter syndrome, and the belief that they must constantly prove themselves. Dr. Lisa encourages people to celebrate their accomplishments, recognize their value, and stop measuring success solely through external achievements. Leadership isn't limited to executive positions. Whether leading a family, a classroom, a company, or a community, everyone has opportunities to lead. Effective leadership starts with self-awareness, emotional resilience, and a commitment to personal growth. Beverly and Dr. Lisa discuss the importance of preparation, especially for young people entering the workforce. Success requires intentionality, research, persistence, and a willingness to step outside one's comfort zone. Talent alone isn't enough without preparation and action. The conversation highlights the importance of building meaningful connections. Like California's redwood trees, which survive by intertwining their root systems, people thrive when they support one another and create strong personal and professional networks. It’s also a reminder that resilience isn't about pushing harder or doing more. It's about understanding your purpose, believing in your value, building supportive relationships, and taking intentional action toward your goals.  Dr. Lisa’s message is clear: protect your well-being, embrace your authenticity, and don't be afraid to let your light shine. When you lead with heart and invest in yourself as much as you invest in others, you're better equipped to thrive under pressure and make a meaningful difference in the lives of those around you. Leaving a review of this podcast is encouraged and greatly appreciated.  Check out Beverly Williams book: Your GPS to Employment Success Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this powerful conversation, Beverly Williams sits down with Waliyy “Main Event” Dixon to discuss purpose, mentorship, community impact, and the importance of creating opportunities for underserved communities. Waliyy shares how his journey evolved from basketball and entertainment into a mission-driven life focused on helping people find hope, direction, and alternatives to destructive paths. One of the strongest themes throughout the discussion is the importance of rebuilding the “village” mindset. Waliyy explains how his upbringing, family, and community shaped his desire to create spaces where people from all walks of life feel welcomed, heard, and valued. Through the Main Event and Friends content center, he’s built a place where conversations, storytelling, mentorship, and creativity come together to support the community. Key Points Waliyy discusses how the Main Event and Friends content center was created to give people from all backgrounds a place to share their stories, connect with resources, and feel supported within the community. The importance of mentorship, accountability, and exposing young people to opportunities beyond sports and entertainment, including trades, entrepreneurship, and business ownership. The conversation highlights the growing need to openly address mental wellness and create safe spaces where people feel comfortable discussing emotional struggles and life challenges. Beverly and Waliyy emphasize that mistakes and past setbacks don’t have to define someone’s future, especially when people have guidance, encouragement, and a willingness to change. Waliyy explains that real success isn’t measured by fame or money, but by helping others grow, succeed, and find hope for a better future. Throughout the conversation, both Beverly and Waliyy stress the importance of hope, service, education, and collaboration. They discuss how media, mentorship, and community leadership can help change lives when people are willing to share knowledge, resources, and encouragement. This episode is an inspiring reminder that real impact begins with conversation, compassion, and the willingness to help others see possibilities beyond their current circumstances. Leaving a review of this podcast is encouraged and greatly appreciated.  Check out Beverly Williams book: Your GPS to Employment Success  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Your Employment Matters, Beverly Williams talks with Ari Montanez, a footwear designer whose journey is a powerful example of what happens when discipline, curiosity, and action come together. From leaving home at a young age to building a career in design and working alongside industry leaders, Ari shares how he navigated uncertainty, embraced opportunity, and created his own path forward. Beverly highlights the importance of effort, follow-through, and recognizing opportunity, reinforcing that success is never accidental. Ari’s story is not just about talent. It is about resilience, intentional decision-making, and the willingness to step outside of traditional paths to build something meaningful. Key Points Early discipline shapes long-term successAri’s experience at St. Benedict’s instilled structure, accountability, and leadership early on. Being responsible for peers and pushed through rigorous challenges built a mindset that carried into his career. Growth comes from being “thrown into the water” Leaving home as a teenager forced Ari to adapt quickly. He learned through trial, failure, and persistence, gaining real-world experience that couldn’t be taught in a classroom. Success requires action, not just ambition Beverly emphasizes that dreams alone are not enough. Progress comes from pursuing internships, building relationships, and consistently following up and following through. Create your own opportunitiesAri didn’t wait for doors to open. He sought out programs, internships, and jobs that aligned with his interests, even leveraging connections and positioning himself strategically to gain access. Real-world experience accelerates growthBy working while in school, Ari gained hands-on industry knowledge early. This gave him a competitive advantage and allowed him to transition into professional roles before many of his peers. Diversify your learning and perspectiveAri intentionally explored areas beyond his core focus, including marketing, photography, and retail. This broader understanding helped him think holistically about product design and business. Failure is part of the processStruggling in certain areas of school did not stop Ari. Instead, he adapted, focused on his strengths, and continued to move forward in ways that aligned with how he learns and works best. Purpose evolves with experienceAs Ari matured, his focus shifted from simply building a career to creating meaningful products with long-term value. His journey reflects a transition from chasing opportunity to defining purpose. Ari’s journey is a reminder that success is not linear and rarely comfortable. It is built through discipline, adaptability, and the courage to pursue opportunities others might overlook. Beverly Williams reinforces a simple but powerful truth: if you want to move forward in your career, you must be willing to put in the work, stay intentional, and take action when opportunity appears. Leaving a review of this podcast is encouraged and greatly appreciated.  Check out Beverly Williams book: Your GPS to Employment Success Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Your Employment Matters, Beverly Williams welcomes Dr. James Huber and his son Sean Huber for a candid conversation about career paths, parenting, risk taking, and what it really means to build a satisfying life. Dr. Huber shares his journey from West Orange, New Jersey to the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine and eventually into private practice. He speaks openly about the persistence it took to gain admission to dental school, the value of mentorship, and how staying connected to scholarship sponsors and professional relationships helped shape his long-term success. His story reinforces a powerful truth: relationships are assets, and gratitude plus follow-through matter. Sean’s path looks very different but carries the same underlying themes. After studying film at Drexel University, he left a job he loved to tour full time with his band Modern Baseball. What could have been a risky detour became a defining chapter. Touring the U.S., Europe, New Zealand, and beyond taught him resilience, adaptability, and problem solving. Today, he continues to perform while building a meaningful career in the craft beer industry. Now at Triple Bottom Brewing in Philadelphia, Sean works at a certified B Corp that operates on a “beer, people, planet” model. Beyond producing beer, the brewery runs a 16-week apprenticeship program for justice-affected and housing-insecure individuals, offering job training, reentry support, and employment placement. It is business with intention, not just profit. Throughout the conversation, several key themes emerge: Networking is not manipulation. It is intentional relationship building. Dr. Huber stayed in touch with scholarship sponsors and mentors, which opened doors and strengthened his professional foundation. Risk can be responsible. Sean’s decision to leave a stable job for music was bold, but it was informed by passion and relationships. He never abandoned work ethic. Parents must balance protection and permission. Letting children travel, relocate, and pursue unconventional paths is difficult, but growth requires space. Satisfaction matters more than status. Both men emphasize enjoying their work. You can hear it in how they talk about it. Regret is usually about presence, not position. Dr. Huber wishes he had worked a little less and “smelled the roses” more. Sean wishes he had slowed down enough to absorb more culture and learning during his fast-paced touring years. The episode also touches on remote work and shifting workplace expectations post-COVID. Beverly reminds listeners that flexibility is possible, but profitability still drives business decisions. Employees must remain productive and adaptable. Employers must recognize that flexibility can strengthen performance and retention. What stands out most is the tone between father and son. There is respect, pride, and mutual recognition that hard work and character matter more than job titles. Different personalities. Different journeys. Same foundation. If you are navigating your own career crossroads, here are the takeaways: Build real relationships and maintain them. Choose paths that align with your values and energy. Accept that change is part of growth. Understand that success is rarely linear. Remember that satisfaction sustains performance. Careers evolve. Industries shift. Opportunities appear in unexpected places. The key is staying open, staying connected, and staying committed to doing good work wherever you land. Leaving a review of this podcast is encouraged and greatly appreciated.  Check out Beverly Williams book: Your GPS to Employment Success Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this solo update episode, host Beverly Williams reconnects with her audience to share important updates about the show, insights into current employment challenges, and a powerful message of resilience and collaboration.  As she prepares to relaunch Your Employment Matters across YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and her website, Beverly emphasizes her ongoing commitment to providing meaningful guidance to job seekers, workers navigating change, and anyone invested in professional growth. Key Points The podcast is transitioning to YouTube, and over 100 existing episodes are being prepared for the platform. New content will return after the first of the year, and the show will continue to be available on Apple Podcasts and youremploymentmatters.com Employment remains a critical, ever-evolving issue, and Beverly is committed to offering personal perspective along with insights from guests who have valuable employment journeys and lessons to share. A new collaborative project is underway, involving people of different ages, backgrounds, and work experiences—all contributing to create meaningful employment-related resources. Collaboration is essential, and Beverly highlights the “three Cs” that make it effective: Communication, Coordination, and Cooperation. She encourages listeners to be intentional about who they work with and to cultivate a personal brand rooted in reliability, punctuality, and integrity. Everyone has value, and listeners are reminded to acknowledge those who help them, stay curious, and build relationships that expand their knowledge and opportunities. Practical encouragement for job seekers: While job loss is painful, your skills, talent, education, and knowledge remain yours. Beverly urges listeners to consider marketable skills, skilled trades, and fields less likely to be displaced by AI as viable, rewarding career paths. Beverly closes with a heartfelt reminder that while the job market may shift, your inherent value and ability to grow never changes. As Your Employment Matters enters its next chapter, she encourages listeners to stay connected, stay hopeful, and stay proactive. Her message is clear: with the right mindset, collaboration, and personal accountability, new doors will always open. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Your Employment Matters, Beverly Williams sits down with Seth Kellogg, a trailblazing senior principal geologist and President-elect of the National Groundwater Association (the first woman in its 75-year history to hold the title). Their conversation covers a rich range of topics from career evolution to mentorship, networking, and leadership. Key Takeaways: From Law to Geology: Seth originally pursued environmental law but pivoted to geology after an internship revealed more hands-on opportunities (and better pay) for geologists. Her curiosity and love for problem-solving helped her embrace a career in environmental consulting. Persistence Pays: Seth’s first major opportunity came through consistent follow-up. She called every two weeks until she was hired for an internship—an early lesson in tenacity and self-advocacy. Making History: Seth will soon become the first female President of the National Groundwater Association, a reflection of her dedication, leadership, and willingness to say “yes” even when she wasn’t sure she was fully qualified. Networking as an Introvert: Though she identifies as an introvert, Seth has developed strategies to network effectively—setting small goals (like connecting with three new people at events) and emphasizing authentic listening as her superpower. Leadership Wisdom: Seth shared practical advice on fostering better communication in teams. If no one asks questions in a meeting, she makes it a point to follow up individually—a hallmark of inclusive, engaged leadership. Advice for Job Seekers: Be persistent but polite in your follow-ups. Send thank-you notes (especially handwritten ones) to stand out. Reflect during career gaps: Unemployment can be an opportunity to realign with your values and identify the next right fit. Focus on relationship-building as a career strategy—not just during job searches. Soft Skills Still Matter: From firm handshakes to showing genuine interest in others, Beverly and Seth emphasize the enduring power of good manners, respect, and thoughtful interaction. This inspiring, practical conversation is a must-listen for anyone navigating career transitions, considering STEM paths, or simply looking to grow as a leader and communicator. Leaving a review of this podcast is encouraged and greatly appreciated.  Check out Beverly Williams book: Your GPS to Employment Success Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the latest episode of Your Employment Matters, Beverly Williams hosts a dynamic and honest conversation with three labor attorneys from Selikoff & Cohen: Elizabeth Pudel, Daniel Dowdy, and Hop Wechsler. explore the realities of labor law, the future of work, and why community, advocacy, and adaptability matter more than ever. Here are the top takeaways from this insightful discussion: There’s No One-Path Career JourneyEach guest shared their unique path to labor law, from academia and publishing to bartending and temp work, highlighting how real-world experience shaped their perspectives and fueled their passion for workers’ rights. Labor Law Is Personal and PowerfulWhether dealing with reductions in force (RIF), unemployment, or workplace discrimination, the attorneys stressed that labor law is rooted in real people’s lives. Public sector unions, in particular, are vital to protecting essential workers and ensuring fair treatment. The Future of Work Is Uncertain but Unions Are a ConstantAI and automation were hot topics, with all guests agreeing that while technology may change industries, labor power and union advocacy remain key to ensuring that innovation doesn’t come at the cost of worker dignity and livelihoods. Union Jobs = Tangible BenefitsUnionized workers earn higher wages, have better benefits, and enjoy stronger job protections. Data from the Department of Treasury and Bureau of Labor Statistics backs this up with unions helping to close the racial wealth and gender wage gaps. Adaptability, Curiosity, and Community Are EssentialBeverly and her guests agreed that finding your professional path often comes through trial, error, and connection. Building relationships, especially across different backgrounds can open unexpected doors and provide support when you need it most. Final Words of Advice: Tap into your community. Collective power starts with connection. Leaving a review of this podcast is encouraged and greatly appreciated.  Check out Beverly Williams book: Your GPS to Employment Success Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this inspiring episode, Tom Lenoble, host of the Opening Pathways podcast, sits down with Beverly Williams, employment attorney, author of Your GPS to Employment Success, and founder of Your Employment Matters, and Parthenon Enterprises, Inc. to talk about the winding roads of career, purpose, and perseverance. Beverly shares her deeply personal journey from employment law to empowering job seekers and future leaders through her books, speeches, training programs, and mentorship. Key Takeaways: Inspired by the Great Recession: Beverly felt called to help others after witnessing widespread unemployment in 2008–09. Her varied career in law, HR, and corporate leadership gave her the tools to assist others. Writing the Book Was a Calling: A moment of clarity led her to start writing Your GPS to Employment Success to help people navigate employment challenges. The Power of Perspective: Beverly emphasizes the emotional toll of job loss and the societal pressure on people, especially men, to be providers. Her empathy is rooted in her father’s example and her passion for service. Turning Point Moment: Clerking for the Chief Justice of her state’s highest court was a major milestone that affirmed her path, though she initially resisted applying for the role. Mental Health Matters: Beverly openly shares her grief over a friend’s suicide and stresses the importance of emotional resilience when searching for employment. Her Greatest Pride: The influence she’s had on young people, mentoring, guiding, and affirming their worth stands out as her proudest contribution. Tough Love and Straight Talk: She’s a truth-teller who believes in telling people what they need to hear, not just what they want to hear. Next Big Thing: Beverly is building a new media platform that merges employment insight with storytelling, and she’s already planning her next book based on her Your Employment Matters podcast interviews. A Hopeful Vision: She believes in the power of learning, the value of trade skills as much as college degrees, and the importance of people knowing their worth—regardless of title or background. Beverly is passionate about helping people discover their best career path. She wants to educate and empower workers at any stage of their career about ways they can be proactive and engaged and achieve success on their employment journey. Leaving a review of this podcast is encouraged and greatly appreciated.  Check out Beverly Williams book:⁠ Your GPS to Employment Success⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Your Employment Matters, host Beverly Williams speaks with Ann Mracek, an author, musician, performer, and content creator whose life is a testament to resilience, reinvention, and creative purpose. Ann’s story is anything but traditional. Once a piano prodigy preparing to debut with a symphony at 16, her career trajectory was suddenly and violently altered by a devastating car accident that crushed her top vertebra. Told she might be paralyzed, Ann chose a different path, one of relentless healing, visualization, and personal strength. Just two years later, she was singing and dancing on stage at Six Flags. That remarkable comeback became a pattern. Throughout her career, Ann has consistently adapted, reinvented, and created opportunities from scratch. Her journey includes: Turning talent into entrepreneurship—from teaching piano as a teen to launching a music studio, dance troupe, and later, interactive children’s theater productions. Using trauma as creative fuel—her book Unpacking the Attic: A Path to Healing Your Inner Child explores childhood pain and healing through memory, reflection, and forgiveness. Building a YouTube channel with global impact—My Best Friends Live in the Woods blends storytelling, original music, and mindfulness teachings for both kids and adults, now with over 160,000 subscribers. Creating every job she's ever held—except for one early performance job, Ann has imagined, launched, and built each opportunity she’s pursued, often combining her creative talents with business savvy. Central to Ann’s philosophy is a commitment to service and collaboration. “Be of service,” she emphasizes in the conversation. “Always offer what you have, your talents, your energy, your time. The return will be far greater than the gift.” Ann’s journey reminds listeners that success isn’t limited by setbacks. Rather, it’s defined by how one responds to them. From injury and loss to new ventures and renewed purpose, she continues to inspire by living a life rooted in passion, persistence, and generosity. For anyone navigating a career crossroads, Ann Mracek’s story is a compelling reminder: reinvention is possible, creativity is powerful, and joy is worth pursuing. Ann’s Book: Unpacking the Attic: A Path to Healing Your Inner Child Leaving a review of this podcast is encouraged and greatly appreciated.  Check out Beverly Williams book:⁠ Your GPS to Employment Success⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this timely episode of Your Employment Matters, host Beverly Williams shares actionable advice and emotional encouragement for anyone facing the stress and uncertainty of unemployment or career transition. Recorded during Mental Health Awareness Month, Beverly speaks candidly about the toll job searching can take on emotional well-being, and why it’s critical to approach a job search with both strategy and self-care. Drawing from her book Your GPS to Employment Success: How to Find and Succeed in the Right Job, she offers a step-by-step model designed to help listeners move forward with focus, discipline, and resilience. Key Takeaways: Before you start applying, stop and regroup. Take time to decompress and prepare mentally, physically, and emotionally. Set up a daily routine and treat your job search like a job itself. Plan, persist, and persevere. Beverly encourages listeners to write out a job search plan, stick to daily goals, and not be discouraged by rejection or silence. “Failure on a permanent basis,” she says, “is not an option.” Be honest with yourself. From evaluating your appearance to assessing your skills and personal brand, self-awareness is key. Seek honest feedback from people who care enough to tell you the truth. Motivate yourself with meaning. Keep a photo or symbol of your “why” near your bed, whether it’s your family, a goal, or a dream, let it remind you why your effort matters. Mental health matters. Beverly honors the memory of a dear friend lost to suicide and powerfully reminds listeners: “Don’t suffer in silence.” Resources like NAMI, Thrive Global, and SAMHSA are shared for those struggling during their job search. Own your employment journey. The world of work has changed. Technology, virtual interviews, and competitive markets require intentional preparation and a willingness to step outside of your comfort zone. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In a thoughtful conversation on Beverly Williams' podcast, leadership expert Kevin Eikenberry shared powerful lessons about potential, leadership, and navigating today's evolving workplace. Here are some key takeaways: 🔹 Think of Leadership as a Verb, Not a Title Kevin emphasized that leadership isn’t about holding a position , it’s about actions and influence. True leaders inspire and guide others, even without formal authority. 🔹 The Power of Choice and Confidence Success isn’t just about talent, it’s about making intentional choices and building confidence. Kevin noted that many people hold themselves back due to fear or imposter syndrome, but growth comes when you choose to act despite uncertainty. 🔹 Influence Over Control In work and life, you can't control everything, but you can influence outcomes. Kevin encouraged focusing on what you can influence rather than getting stuck on what you can't. 🔹 Building Genuine Connections Social media can make people more isolated. Kevin and Beverly discussed the importance of face-to-face interactions, networking, and volunteering to broaden perspectives and opportunities. 🔹 Navigating Change and Work-Life Balance Work-life "balance" looks different for everyone. Kevin shared that it’s not about finding a perfect split, it’s about making intentional choices that work for you, your team, and your lifestyle. 🔹 Resilience in a Shifting Work Environment The workplace is forever changed post-pandemic. Flexibility, adaptability, and open communication between employers and employees are essential to thrive in today’s "new normal."   🔹 Resources for Growth Kevin also introduced his new book Flexible Leadership: Navigate Uncertainty and Lead with Confidence and offered a free masterclass on building personal and team confidence. Check out Kevin’s resources: kevineikenberry.com/flexible and kevineikenberry.com/gift. A reminder from Beverly and Kevin: You are special. Step out, make the ask, and embrace the opportunities ahead. Leaving a review of this podcast is encouraged and greatly appreciated.  Check out Beverly Williams book: Your GPS to Employment Success Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the latest episode of Your Employment Matters, host Beverly Williams sits down with Tom Lenoble, a seasoned executive, leadership coach, and CEO of the Academy for Coaching Excellence. Tom shares his incredible career journey from MCI to Facebook and beyond, offering insights into the evolving job market, workplace dynamics, and career longevity. 💡 Key Takeaways: ✅ Career Evolution & Adaptability: Tom’s journey from telecommunications to Silicon Valley startups and coaching highlights the importance of being open to unexpected opportunities, sometimes even from companies you've never heard of (Hello, early Facebook!). ✅ The Changing Landscape of HR & Hiring: The hiring process has evolved dramatically from face-to-face interviews to digital screenings. While efficiency has improved, companies may be missing out on top talent by relying solely on automated systems. ✅ Workplace Culture & Hybrid Models: While remote work offers flexibility, there is still value in in-person interactions. Networking, mentorship, and those “hallway conversations” can significantly impact career growth. ✅ Gen Z in the Workplace: Employers are struggling with high turnover rates among Gen Z employees, but instead of dismissing them, companies should focus on bridging generational gaps through mentorship and leadership training. Meanwhile, young professionals should take initiative and ask questions, be open to feedback, and show enthusiasm for growth. ✅ The Power of Presence & Reputation: Whether in an office or out in public, people are always observing. Being intentional about how you present yourself can open unexpected doors. Tom also previews his upcoming book, My Life in Business Suits, Hospital Gowns, and High Heels, and shares his favorite Maya Angelou quote: "Every storm runs out of rain." 🌦️ 🎧 Tune in for an insightful discussion on career resilience, leadership, and adapting to the modern workplace. Leaving a review of this podcast is encouraged and greatly appreciated.  Check out Beverly Williams book: Your GPS to Employment Success Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When you think of the entertainment industry, you might picture the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, red carpets, and award shows. But behind every breakout star and successful production, there are industry professionals like Zachary Spiegel working tirelessly to bring talent to the forefront. Zach is a casting director whose journey from actor to casting professional has been filled with passion, perseverance, and a deep commitment to inclusivity. Recently, Zach joined Beverly Williams for an in-depth conversation about his career, the art of casting, and what it truly takes to succeed in the entertainment business. Zach’s love for entertainment started in an unexpected place: Buffy the Vampire Slayer. His journey took him from New York to Los Angeles, with a stop in Italy, where he studied Commedia dell’arte as a college junior. Zach pursued his acting career, spending seven years in New York honing his craft. While most actors dread auditions, Zach found himself enjoying the process. He realized that his true passion lay not in performing but in being on the other side of the table, helping to discover and cultivate talent. That’s when he made the shift from acting to casting. Zach feels it’s the best of both worlds; he is deeply involved in the creative process but in a way that feels more fulfilling. Zach considers casting an art form that requires empathy, business acumen, and a keen eye for talent. He views his work as a bridge between producers and actors, ensuring that the right talent gets the right opportunities.  His work goes beyond just filling roles. It’s about creating opportunities for members of historically excluded and marginalized communities. Zach is passionate about making sure every actor has equal access to auditions, advocating for inclusive and accessible casting calls. He explained one of the ways he does that is by using intentional language in casting notices. The way a role is described can either invite or discourage certain actors from applying. By being intentional with wording, Zach ensures that actors of all backgrounds feel welcome to audition. Many people dream of breaking into entertainment, lured by fame and fortune. But as Zach and Beverly discussed, success in the industry isn’t about talent alone—it’s about perseverance and hard work. “The most talented people don’t always reap the benefits,” Zach shared. “Because the most talented people don’t always have the ambition or desire to do it.” Ambition, networking, and resilience are just as important as raw skill. And networking isn’t just about meeting people, it’s about staying in touch and building relationships and ways to create mutual value. Beverly added her own perspective on this, emphasizing the power of genuine connections. Whether through a simple email, a thoughtful card, or a quick message, nurturing relationships can open doors in ways you never expect. Zach’s career, much like the entertainment industry itself, is ever-evolving. Casting professionals often find themselves between projects, but rather than waiting for opportunities to come to him, Zach takes an active approach. He reads scripts and tracks up-and-coming actors as well as staying engaged with industry trends. As the conversation wrapped up, Beverly asked Zach what advice he would give to those looking to break into entertainment. His response? “Don’t leave, don’t die.” It’s a humorous yet profound take on the industry—one that speaks to the resilience required to stay in the game. For anyone considering a career in entertainment, Zach’s story is a testament to the power of adaptability, persistence, and passion. The path may not always be straightforward, but for those willing to put in the work, the rewards can be life changing. Leaving a review of this podcast is encouraged and greatly appreciated. Check out Beverly Williams book: Your GPS to Employment Success Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices