Career Contessa

Latest Episodes:

The Skill Every Boss Wants You to Have Jun 10, 2025

Show notes

Leadership expert Suzy Welch shares why execution — not ideas or charisma — is the real key to career growth. Learn how to build a reputation for follow-through and become the person every boss wants on their team.

You’ll learn:

✅ Why execution drives promotions

✅ Habits that build trust and credibility

✅ How to turn ideas into action

Show Notes

Weekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQW

Guest Resources:

CNBC article: https://www.cnbc.com/2025/05/08/most-underrated-trait-of-highly-successful-people-harvard-career-expert.html

Becoming You book: https://www.suzywelch.com/books/becoming-you-the-proven-method-for-crafting-your-authentic-life-and-career/

Website: https://www.suzywelch.com/

Career Contessa Resources

Book 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/

Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/

Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Future-Proof Skill: 4 Ways to Practice Self-Leadership Today Jun 03, 2025

Show notes

In a world where AI is transforming the workplace faster than ever, self-leadership has become a must-have skill. But what does it actually mean to lead yourself—and how can you start?

In this episode, Leading Yourself author and leadership consultant Elizabeth Lotardo breaks down four essential practices of self-leaders. Whether you're navigating uncertainty, looking for more meaning in your work, or trying to stay motivated without a micromanager, this episode is your guide to becoming the kind of leader your career needs—starting with you.

You’ll learn:

The 4 core practices of self-leadership and how to apply them
How to find meaning in your work, even if your job isn’t your dream role
Simple habits to stay accountable, focused, and resilient—even when no one’s watching

Show Notes

Get 15% off OneSkin with the code CONTESSA at https://www.oneskin.co/ #oneskinpod

Weekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQW

Guest Resources:

Elizabeth Lotardo website: https://www.elizabethlotardo.com/

Leading Yourself: https://www.elizabethlotardo.com/writing

Career Contessa Resources

Book 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/

Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/

Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

4 Strategies to Live Above "The Resentment Line" at Work May 27, 2025

Show notes

Feeling overworked and undervalued? You might be operating below the resentment line—but you don’t have to stay there. In this episode, Amina AlTai, author of The Ambition Trap, shares four key strategies to help you set boundaries, stay motivated, and reclaim your career satisfaction. You’ll learn:

How to recognize when you’re operating below the resentment line and why it happens
Practical strategies to set boundaries, assess capacity, and navigate trade-offs
How to advocate for fair compensation and resources without fear of backlash

Show Notes

Weekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQW

Guest Resources:

Amina website: https://www.aminaaltai.com/

The Ambition Trap Book: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/734356/the-ambition-trap-by-amina-altai-foreword-by-rachel-rodgers/

Overcome work conflicts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-to-overcome-workplace-conflict-5-strategies-that-work/id1434354911?i=1000532948090

Overcome the frozen (middle) career stage: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/overcome-the-frozen-middle-career-stage/id1434354911?i=1000483134747

Career Contessa Resources

Book 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/

Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/

Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The 10-Second Trick to Better Conversations, According to a Harvard Professor May 20, 2025

Show notes

Struggling with small talk? Dreading awkward silences? According to Harvard professor and author Alison Wood Brooks, there’s a 10-second trick that can instantly make you a better conversationalist—and it’s backed by science. In this episode, host Lauren McGoodwin sits down with Alison to explore why meaningful conversations matter more than ever, and how we can all get better at them with just a few intentional changes.

You’ll learn:

The “10-second trick” that boosts connection and flow in any conversation
The biggest mistakes people make when trying to be engaging—and how to fix them
How stronger conversation skills can accelerate your career and build confidence

Whether you're prepping for a performance review, networking event, or just want to connect more deeply with the people in your life, this episode will give you practical tools to speak up and stand out.

Show Notes

Weekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQW

Sponsor:

Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to zocdoc.com/contessa to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today.

Guest Resources:

Buy the book: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/708473/talk-by-alison-wood-brooks/

Follow the TALK book tour: https://alisonwoodbrooks.com/events/

Practice using call-backs: https://alisonwoodbrooks.com/conversation-book/

Download the TALK workbook: https://alisonwoodbrooks.com/conversation-book/

Follow Alison on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alison-wood-brooks-7b98b826/

And Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/profalisonbrooks/

Career Contessa Resources

Book 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/

Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/

Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

3 in 30: Lessons from Top Performers May 13, 2025

Show notes

What sets top performers apart? In this 3 in 30 episode, Career Contessa founder Lauren McGoodwin and coach Marnie Lemonik share three key lessons high achievers live by—like embracing self-awareness, mastering adaptability, and owning your time. Packed with practical tips and tools, this episode will help you level up at work and beyond. Listen in to learn:

Why adaptability is your most employable skill
How self-awareness is redefining leadership
Smart, realistic strategies to own your time and energy

Show Notes

Weekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQW

Follow Marnie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marnielemonik/

Follow Lauren on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenmcgoodwin/

3 in 30 Episode - Routines & Habits: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/3-in-30-our-top-work-routines-habits/id1434354911?i=1000703562586

Rule of 3 worksheet: https://www.careercontessa.com/resources/productivity-rule-of-three/

Productivity Powerhouse: https://careercontessa.teachable.com/p/productivity-powerhouse/

Resources

The Job Search Dashboard: https://careercontessa.teachable.com/p/the-job-search-dashboard-notion-template?affcode=70732_cx6_j5wn

Marnie’s Virtual Resume Review Service: https://www.marnielemonik.com/resources/p/virtual-resume-review

Marnie’s Interview Prep eBook: https://www.marnielemonik.com/resources/p/ebook-how-to-shine-in-your-next-job-interview

10% Discount Code on Marnie’s Website: CCPOD

Sponsors:

Shopify: Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at shopify.com/careercontessa.

Found: Open a Found account for FREE at found.com/contessa.

Career Contessa Resources

Book 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/

Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/

Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Creative Techniques to Master Self-Marketing: How to Articulate Your Unique Value with Confidence May 06, 2025

Show notes

Talking about your achievements can feel uncomfortable, but self-marketing is a crucial skill for career growth. In this episode, career coach and author Michelle Schafer shares how to confidently articulate your value—without feeling like you’re bragging.

You’ll learn:

How to reframe self-promotion as sharing facts, not boasting
Key ways to showcase your value beyond your resume
Simple daily habits to build confidence in self-marketing

Show Notes

Weekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQW

Guest Resources:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelleschafercoaching/

Website: https://mschafercoaching.ca/

Free offer: A free chapter from my book Cultivating Career Growth: Navigating Transitions with Purpose (or buy the whole book)- sign up here: https://mschafercoaching.ca/cultivatingcareergrowth/

Email: michelle@mschafercoaching.ca

Book a complimentary 30 min discovery call with me here: https://calendly.com/coaching-with-michelle-schafer

Career Contessa Resources

Book 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/

Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/

Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/

Sponsor

OpenPhone is offering our listeners 20% off of your first 6 months at openphone.com/contessa.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Sleep-Work Connection: Why Rest is Your Secret Career Weapon + How to Get Better Sleep Apr 29, 2025

Show notes

Sleep isn’t a luxury—it’s a career strategy. In this episode, we’re unpacking the powerful link between sleep and work performance with Terry Cralle, RN and certified clinical sleep educator from the Better Sleep Council, to explore how your sleep habits can make or break your productivity, decision-making, and even long-term career growth.

Whether you're burning the midnight oil or battling afternoon brain fog, this conversation will give you the tools you need to prioritize rest and show up as your best, most focused self at work.

You’ll learn:

Why sacrificing sleep to get ahead is actually holding you back
Science-backed sleep hygiene habits that improve rest and focus
How to create a sleep-friendly environment without a full bedroom makeover

Show Notes:

Weekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQW

Guest Resources:

Better Sleep Council: https://bettersleep.org/

Career Contessa Resources:

Book 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/

Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/

Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/

Sponsors:

Get 40% off with code CAREER at CozyEarth.com. May 2nd - 4th, it's Buy One, Get One Free on their bamboo pajamas. Just use code CAREERBOGO at checkout.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This One Trait Makes You a Good Employee— But a Bad Salary Negotiator Apr 22, 2025

Show notes

The very trait that makes you a great employee might be holding you back when it comes to negotiating. In this episode, we’re joined by negotiation experts Gerta Malaj and Alex Choi from YourNegotiations.com to discuss why over-communication can hurt your negotiation power—and what to do instead.

You’ll learn:

Why over-communication weakens your position in a negotiation
Practical strategies to use intentional silence to your advantage
How to confidently shift the conversation when faced with tricky salary questions

Show Notes

Weekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQW

Guest Resources:

6 Dos and Don’ts of Successful Salary Negotiations: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/6-dos-and-donts-of-a-successful-salary-negotiation/id1434354911?i=1000631573542

YourNegotiations.com: https://www.yournegotiations.com/

Weekly newsletter: https://yournegotiations.kit.com/

Book a free call: https://calendly.com/alexhapki/callcareercontessa

Gerta LinkedIn (posts free content daily): https://www.linkedin.com/in/gertamalaj/

Alex LinkedIn (posts free content daily): https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexhapki/

Career Contessa Resources

Book 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/

Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/

Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/

Sponsor:

Cozy Earth: Luxury shouldn’t be out of reach. Use code POW for 40% off best-selling sheets, pajamas, and more.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

3 in 30 : Our Top Work Routines + Habits Apr 15, 2025

Show notes

Spring is the perfect time to refresh your work routines and habits! Learn three tangible tips in 30 minutes to help you stay organized, productive, and energized—no matter where or how you work with host Lauren McGoodwin and career coach Marnie Lemonik as they dive into:

✅ The difference between routines and habits (and why you need both)

✅ Tried-and-true strategies for structuring your workday

✅ The power of time blocking, prioritization, and daily reflection

Plus, we’re sharing our personal work routines, a rapid-fire “love it or hate it” segment, and a fun way to grab exclusive productivity resources.

Show Notes

Weekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQW

Follow Marnie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marnielemonik/

Follow Lauren on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenmcgoodwin/

Sponsors:

Go to zocdoc.com/CONTESSA to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today.

OpenPhone is offering our listeners 20% off of your first 6 months at openphone.com/contessa.

Luxury shouldn’t be out of reach. Use code POW for 40% off best-selling sheets, pajamas, and more.

Resources

Figure Out Your Next Career Move: https://www.careercontessa.com/resources/figure-out-your-next-career-move/

Job Search Dashboard: https://careercontessa.teachable.com/p/the-job-search-dashboard-notion-template

CareerFitter Online Assessment: https://www.careerfitter.com/free_test/careerbuilder?afid=1822

Free Cover Letter Template: https://www.marnielemonik.com/resources/p/free-template-cover-letter

Marnie’s Interview Prep eBook: https://www.marnielemonik.com/store/p/ebook-how-to-shine-in-your-next-job-interview

10% Discount Code: CCPOD

The Job Search Dashboard: https://careercontessa.teachable.com/p/the-job-search-dashboard-notion-template?affcode=70732_cx6_j5wn

Career Contessa Resources

Book 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/

Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/

Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Decoding Tech Salaries: Maximizing Stock Options, RSUs, and Compensation Apr 08, 2025

Show notes

Navigating tech salaries and equity can be confusing, but understanding the details of stock options, RSUs, and compensation strategies can significantly impact your financial future. Compensation expert, Kimberly Hodgdon, who has worked with major tech companies like Netflix and Pinterest, breaks down key insights to help you maximize your earning potential such as:

How to decipher and negotiate tech compensation packages, including RSUs and ESPPs.
Strategies for evaluating a company's stock value before accepting an offer.
Expert tips on managing equity for long-term financial success.

Show Notes

Weekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQW

The Salary Project: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/

LevelsFYI: https://www.levels.fyi/

Blind: https://www.teamblind.com/salary

Guest Resources:

Kimberly Hodgedon: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberlyhodgdon/

The Comp Team: https://www.thecompteam.com/

Comp. Template: Spreadsheet to calculate Total Compensation

Career Contessa Resources

Book 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/

Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/