Degree Free

Latest Episodes:

30 Seconds to Stand Out?!, Breaking into Recruiting, and Navigating Careers as an Introvert with Linda Le (DF#128) Dec 20, 2023

Show notes

In this episode, Linda Le, founder of Creatively Quiet and a recruiter in the defense industry, shares her experience as an introvert and debunks the misconception that introverts are weak. Linda discusses her journey into recruiting, overcoming challenges without a degree, and how she became a top recruiter in her division.

“Hi I'm Linda :) I am currently a recruiter in defense and Founder of Creatively Quiet a mental health brand centered towards amplifying quiet voices. I was a college dropout and for the longest time, society told me that I was never going to amount to much without a college degree. With learning to have confidence in myself and finding different ways to network and sell myself on my potential instead of the limits others labeled me with, I ultimately broke into corporate and built a successful side brand :)” - Linda Le

What You’ll Learn:

- Linda Le’s transition from a bank teller to a successful recruiter by impressing hiring managers with her determination and attitude.
- Her decision to decline acceptance to her dream school, UC Davis, due to fears of student loan debt and discomfort in a classroom setting.
- The challenges she faced in job applications without a degree and how she found a recruiting position after working at Whole Foods.
- Insights into the hiring process in recruiting and the pay structure for recruiters in staffing agencies versus corporate recruiting.
- The acknowledgment of bias in the employment process and Linda's efforts to mitigate it by being open to candidates with gaps or overqualification.
- Introduction to Creatively Quiet, Linda's platform offering guidance and resources for job seekers and professionals in the recruiting industry.
- Discussion on the experience and challenges of being an introvert in the workplace, and the misconception that introverts are weak.
- Inspiring advice for overcoming insecurities and fear of judgment, focusing on growth, and seeking inspiration from successful individuals.
- Final thoughts on the guest's contact information and the reminder that everyone has the ability to succeed and make positive changes in their lives.

Tune in to the Degree Free Podcast to gain insights into Linda Le's journey as an introverted recruiter, breaking barriers, and finding success without a degree. This episode offers valuable advice for job seekers, professionals in recruiting, and anyone seeking inspiration to thrive in their chosen paths. Don't miss out!

To keep up with everything Degree Free check out our website: degreefree.co

Join the Degree Free Network and get the support you need to get hired, get that promotion, and achieve your career goals! You’ll get access to our free resources such as the 5 Degree Free Pathways and 7 Day Get Hired Challenge Course: degreefree.co/network

Learn job hunting skills and learn how to land your dream job in 7 days: degreefree.co/gethired/

Starting your degree free journey but don't know where to start? Check out our free ‘5 Degree Free Pathways’ Course: degreefree.co/pathways

College Marketing Secrets and $800,000 in Debt for a Photography Degree?! (DF#127) Dec 13, 2023

Show notes

Colleges are the best marketers in the world. Sometimes they market to us without us even knowing. In this episode, we talk about how AP courses are used by colleges to capture students early and get them hooked.

What you’ll learn:

- Explore the high cost of college degrees, particularly in niche fields like film and photography, and the challenges faced by graduates in finding well-paying jobs.
- Find out why pursuing high-value skills and practical choices may be a better alternative to a traditional degree.
- Learn about the importance of gaining practical experience and building a solid portfolio in creative fields like photography and film, without solely relying on formal education.
- Discover how parents can support their children in pursuing their interests and gaining exposure in desired industries.

We hope you found this episode enlightening and thought-provoking. Let us know if you liked this new segment in the comments!

To keep up with everything Degree Free check out our website: degreefree.co

Learn job hunting skills and learn how to land your dream job in 7 days: degreefree.co/gethired/

Starting your degree free journey but don't know where to start? Check out our free ‘5 Degree Free Pathways’ Course: degreefree.co/pathways

Degree Free is Starting to Catch!, Minnesota Eliminates Degree Requirements from Jobs, and Why Skills ＞ Degrees (DF #126) Dec 06, 2023

Show notes

A college degree isn’t necessary for success. In this episode, we go over the growing trend of employers lowering degree requirements and the importance of identifying high-leverage skills. Let's shift the narrative to 'Degree Free' instead of 'college dropout' and emphasize the value of a skill-based society.

What You’ll Learn:

- Discover how jobs without degrees can be just as lucrative as those requiring a college degree. We debunk the myth that certain jobs are only reserved for college graduates and discuss examples of Degree Free individuals obtaining these roles.
- Learn about the significance of negotiation skills in securing higher salaries, regardless of whether someone has a degree or not. We highlight the impact of starting salaries on future earning potential and share personal stories of negotiation experiences.
- Listen to a thought-provoking conversation about the pressure to follow predetermined paths and the benefits of shifting towards a skill and merit-based society. We address the influence of colleges as marketing machines and question their hold on individuals who did not purchase their product.
- Engage in a discussion about the necessity of college and the value of alternative learning paths. We challenge the idea that college is always the best option and share anecdotes that question its importance.
- Reflect on the financial motivations behind parental insistence on college and explore the broader aspects of life beyond monetary gains. We invite you to reevaluate the traditional expectations imposed on young individuals.

Join us as we unravel the perception of success without a college degree. This episode aims to inspire and empower listeners to embrace skill-based opportunities and negotiate for higher salaries. Let's break free from conventional norms and embrace the 'Degree Free' approach. Don't miss out!

To keep up with everything Degree Free check out our website: degreefree.co

Learn job hunting skills and learn how to land your dream job in 7 days: degreefree.co/gethired/

Starting your degree free journey but don't know where to start? Check out our free ‘5 Degree Free Pathways’ Course: degreefree.co/pathways

3 Conversations to Have With Your Child Before They Buy a Degree (DF#125) Nov 29, 2023

Show notes

In this episode, we discussed three important conversations to have with your child before they spend five and a half years and hundreds of thousands of dollars on a college degree.

What You'll Learn:

• Determining if the desired job legally requires a degree and exploring alternative paths such as trade schools or online courses.
• Weighing the financial implications of pursuing a degree and considering options like apprenticeships or starting a business.
• Researching job prospects, salary expectations, and the current and future demand for a particular career before making a decision.

Tune in to gain valuable insights about the practical aspects of pursuing a college degree.

To keep up with everything Degree Free check out our website: degreefree.co

Learn job hunting skills and learn how to land your dream job in 7 days: degreefree.co/gethired/

Starting your degree free journey but don't know where to start? Check out our free ‘5 Degree Free Pathways’ Course: degreefree.co/pathways

Debunking the College Monopoly: How To Pursue True Education & Get The Job You Want (DF#124) Nov 22, 2023

Show notes

In this episode, we explore the myth that college is the only path to education. We emphasize that education can be obtained in various ways and locations, challenging the idea that colleges monopolize knowledge.

We also delve into the increasing financial literacy and cost-consciousness of the younger generation, questioning the value and affordability of college.

What You’ll Learn:

- The perception of college as synonymous with education is debunked, highlighting the flexibility of learning outside traditional institutions.
- The influence of parents' experiences with college on their children's decisions is explored, questioning the relevance of a well-rounded education in today's job landscape.
- The importance of soft skills and the trend of hiring individuals with specialized skill sets is discussed, emphasizing the value of adapting to the evolving job market.
- Examples of disappearing jobs due to advancements in technology, specifically AI, are given, prompting us to stay informed and adapt to new technologies.
- Understand the importance of tailoring education to personal interests and becoming a well-rounded individual.
- Discover strategies for upskilling and transitioning into growing job categories, while emphasizing the importance of mindset and skill set.

Join us as we unravel the changing landscape of education, jobs, and personal growth!

To keep up with everything Degree Free check out our website: degreefree.co

Learn job hunting skills and learn how to land your dream job in 7 days: degreefree.co/gethired/

Starting your degree free journey but don't know where to start? Check out our free ‘5 Degree Free Pathways’ Course: degreefree.co/pathways

The Papered Mindset: The Disconnect Between College Education and Employment (DF#123) Nov 15, 2023

Show notes

In this episode, we dive into the controversial topic of degree vs. experience. We explore the misleading promises of the college system and the unrealistic expectations many graduates have.
What You’ll Learn:

- The misconception that a degree is equivalent to experience and guarantees high-paying jobs
- The importance of gaining real-world experience and starting at entry-level positions
- Our personal experiences of facing lower salaries after college and the need to adapt
- Challenging the 'loser's mindset' and embracing alternative paths to success
- The limitations imposed by the education system's narrow focus on college enrollment

Enjoy the episode!

To keep up with everything Degree Free check out our website: degreefree.co

Learn job hunting skills and learn how to land your dream job in 7 days: degreefree.co/gethired/

Starting your degree free journey but don't know where to start? Check out our free ‘5 Degree Free Pathways’ Course: degreefree.co/pathways

4 Ways to AI Proof Your Child’s Future (DF#122) Nov 08, 2023

Show notes

In today's episode, we delve into the concept of 'AI-proofing' a child's career and the role of college in a future dominated by artificial intelligence. We challenge the belief that AI will entirely replace jobs and explore the potential for new opportunities.

What You'll Learn:

- Discover the impact of technology, especially AI, on job automation.
- Understand why focusing solely on hard skills might not guarantee job security and why a college degree's relevance is shifting in today's AI-influenced world.
- Uncover the importance of curiosity and lifelong learning for success in an AI-driven job market.
- Explore the significance of building a strong network and creating valuable connections.
- The importance of soft skills and learning to use AI tools to adapt to the changing job landscape.
- Strategies for standing out in the age of AI, including being highly skilled, easy to work with, and creatively pursuing education.
- The value of creating a strong network and taking action to showcase one's work.

Remember to subscribe and join us next week for another engaging episode!

To keep up with everything Degree Free check out our website: degreefree.co

Learn job hunting skills and learn how to land your dream job in 7 days: degreefree.co/gethired/

Starting your degree free journey but don't know where to start? Check out our free ‘5 Degree Free Pathways’ Course: degreefree.co/pathways

How We Made $1,000,000+ Capitalizing on Internet Trends With Degree Free Internet Entrepreneurs Brandon Chin and Christian Chin (DF#121) Nov 01, 2023

Show notes

In this episode, we delve into the exciting world of NFTs (non-fungible tokens) and their transformative potential.

Join us as we chat with Brandon and Christian Chin, esteemed Internet entrepreneurs and NFT experts, about their experiences, strategies, and the future outlook of NFTs.

What You’ll Learn:

- Discover how NFTs can represent digital identity, provide exclusive access, and have practical real-world applications like ticketing and certification.
- Explore the rise and evolution of the NFT market, from its hype-driven boom to its current state of reduced liquidity.
- Uncover the promising future of NFTs beyond art, as they evolve to focus on real-life usage and subscription-based models.
- Hear firsthand about Brandon and Christian’s success in the NFT market, including leveraging trading bots and creating the innovative Squishy Squad project.
- Learn valuable lessons about navigating the volatile NFT market, including the importance of taking profits, managing money, and exercising caution.
- Gain insights into the experiences of Brandon and Christian as they share personal stories, highlight the role of luck, and advise on setting realistic expectations.
- Get to know the challenges faced in the NFT space, from managing blockchain platforms to converting currencies, and the importance of building a reliable team.
- Discover Brandon and Christian's perspectives on pursuing careers in the crypto space, their shift towards real estate, and the significance of diversification and networking.
- Wrap up the podcast with valuable advice on embracing opportunities, taking calculated risks, and continuously exploring new skills and personal branding.

Whether you're a seasoned NFT enthusiast or curious about this rapidly evolving market, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and perspectives. Stay tuned for more captivating conversations on the Degree Free Podcast!

To keep up with everything Degree Free check out our website: degreefree.co

Learn job hunting skills and learn how to land your dream job in 7 days: degreefree.co/gethired/

Starting your degree free journey but don't know where to start? Check out our free ‘5 Degree Free Pathways’ Course: degreefree.co/pathways

From Construction to Bitcoin Developer in Less Than 18 Months: Tips for Breaking In and Building a Portfolio with Damian Goodenough (DF#120) Oct 25, 2023

Show notes

May 2022: Damian Goodenough was working in construction and working on a tractor listening to Hannah on Pomp’s podcast…

October 2023: Damian is a guest on the Degree Free podcast and is a Bitcoin dev!

Yup! Your life can change that fast!

In this episode, Damian shares his story about becoming a developer in less than 18 months and talks about his perspective on the value of practical skills and experience over a college degree.

There is something in this episode for everyone! So even if you don’t want to be a dev or work in crypto, tune into this episode and we promise you’ll get something out of it!

What You’ll Learn:

- Advice on learning new skills, networking, and overcoming imposter syndrome
- The value of practical skills and experience over a college degree in the hiring process
- Damian's journey from construction to becoming a Bitcoin developer
- The different areas and opportunities within Bitcoin development
- Providing proof-of-work and building a portfolio in the Bitcoin industry

Don’t miss this week’s episode!

To keep up with everything Degree Free check out our website: degreefree.co

Learn job hunting skills and learn how to land your dream job in 7 days: degreefree.co/gethired/

Starting your degree free journey but don't know where to start? Check out our free ‘5 Degree Free Pathways’ Course: degreefree.co/pathways

Is College Worth $500,000? and The Future of Work in an AI World (DF#119) Oct 18, 2023

Show notes

Is going to college worth $500,000? Today, we talk about the high cost of college and the exponential increase in tuition over the last few decades. Unemployment and underemployment is on the rise for college graduates which is making everyone question whether or not college is a good option for them or their kids.

We also talk about the future of work in an increasingly AI-driven world and how you can prepare your career for that inevitable future.

What You’ll Learn:

- The changing landscape of higher education and the need for more flexible options.
- The importance of people skills in an increasingly automated world and the future of job security.
- The impact of AI on various industries, the need for upskilling, and opportunities for individuals and industries.
- The potential impact of AI on job automation and the importance of upskilling for individuals in low-skilled jobs.
- The significance of soft skills, communication, and likability in job interviews in an automated world.

Join us as we explore the changing landscape of higher education and the future of job security. Don't miss out on this week’s actionable tips!

To keep up with everything Degree Free check out our website: degreefree.co

Learn job hunting skills and learn how to land your dream job in 7 days: degreefree.co/gethired/

Starting your degree free journey but don't know where to start? Check out our free ‘5 Degree Free Pathways’ Course: degreefree.co/pathways

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