Embrace the Squiggle
By: Kristine Thody & Colleen Delvecchio
Language: en-us
Categories: Business, Careers, Entrepreneurship, Management
The podcast where professional women share the real, unfiltered stories behind their career pivots and squiggly journeys. Whether you're contemplating a major career shift, feeling sidelined after a break, or simply questioning "what's next?" when the traditional ladder doesn't exist, this podcast is your career navigation companion.Hosts Colleen and Kristine bring you weekly conversations with women who've navigated career uncertainty and emerged stronger, offering practical strategies and the permission you need to create your own squiggly path.Subscribe now to transform your career squiggles from something you endure into something you embrace.
Episodes
Big Squiggles for 2026 with Colleen and Kristine
Jan 07, 2026The new year doesn’t have to mean change. It can mean maintenance or shedding. But for Embrace the Squiggle, of course it means squiggling.
This year you’ll notice some big changes for the podcast, with the introduction of 3 new co-hosts in February. So stay tuned to hear about how and why we are squiggling!
Join us for to Embrace Your 2026 Squiggle: https://www.maxady.com/workshops
Stay in Touch with Your Hosts:
Colleen on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/comara/Kristine on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody/Subs...
Duration: 00:34:02Who Are You Outside of Your Job? with Jenna Anderson
Dec 31, 2025The first thing we get asked when meeting people is often: what do you do for work? But what about: what do you love to do? How do you spend your time? Who are your friends?
This episode is all about defining your life outside of your squiggly career! And Jenna is the perfect person to talk to about it.
Jenna Anderson is an expert on making friends in the modern age and she shares her advice on TikTok and works as a friendship coach. Jenna shares her career journey from aspiring filmmaker to a...
Duration: 00:46:53The Identity Shift of Switching from TV Producer to Product Manager with Anna Campbell
Dec 24, 2025Did you start your career in something super cool? Like TV or music or art. And now you're just a project manager!? Happens to us because our jobs need to fit our lives. This is exactly what happened to Anna Campbell and if this is relatable, listen on!
Anna, a former TV producer turned product manager, shares her unconventional career journey. She started with her childhood aspirations to be an actor, transitioning to TV production, and eventually finding her way into product management. She discusses the challenges and decisions she faced and how she adapted her skills...
Duration: 00:39:23Something So Bad Turned into Something So Beautiful with Nicole Nell
Dec 17, 2025Hospitalized for months without knowing why and soon after changing her whole career, talk about a squiggle!
Colleen and Kristine chat with Nicole Nell, also known as DJ Nicki Nell, who shares her journey from a professional dancer to a sought-after DJ and entrepreneur. Despite facing challenges like a severe illness and the COVID-19 pandemic, Nicole successfully pivoted her career, launching Visual Sound Productions which includes divisions for weddings, multimedia, AV production, and talent representation.
DJ Nikki Nell: https://www.djnickinell.com/
Follow Nikki: https://www.instagram.com/djnickinell
Stay in...
Duration: 00:42:11From Terrified to Post to Just Putting It Out There with Christine Coughlin
Dec 10, 2025Terrified to post? You're not alone AND you might be overthinking it.
Christine Coughlin went from stay-at-home mom to founder of YVR Creatives by doing the thing that scared her: showing up online. She started with a blog about motherhood and identity, and now runs a content agency helping women entrepreneurs find their voice, build community, and grow businesses that actually feel good.
This episode is your permission slip to stop perfecting and start posting!
Follow Christine: https://www.instagram.com/iamchristinecoughlin
YVR Creatives: https://www.instagram.com/yvr.creatives
<... Duration: 00:42:19Embracing Your 4,000 Mondays with Jodi Wellman
Dec 03, 2025What would you do differently if you knew exactly how many Mondays you had left? Jodi Wellman went from corporate leadership to founding "4,000 Mondays" after watching her mother's dreams go unrealized.
She shares her insights on living a squander-free life, inspired by her late mother's unfulfilled dreams, and emphasizes the importance of making intentional choices to enrich daily life. The conversation covers practical steps to overcome fear, seize opportunities, and savor the small moments that make life worthwhile. Jodi also provides a glimpse into her book 'You Only Die Once' and offers advice on how to approach...
Duration: 00:50:23Trust Your Gut Every Time: 100 Episodes of Embrace the Squiggle
Nov 26, 2025In this milestone episode celebrating the 100th installment of Embrace the Squiggle, Kristine and Colleen reflect on recurring themes from hosting this podcast.
Colleen shares the story of how her favorite job went to her least favorite after getting a new boss (tale as old as time). Kristine dives into how she guides clients navigating these big career decisions. And they discuss why your dream job may be very possible, you just have to ask.
And from the bottom of our hearts: THANK YOU to all the squiggly listeners who have supported us these last 100...
Duration: 00:40:22Don’t be the Shoulda, Coulda, Woulda Person with Kristie Raymond
Nov 19, 2025In episode 99 (!!) of Embrace the Squiggle, Colleen and Kristine welcome Kristie Raymond to discuss her journey - that all started by trying a bunch of stuff out.
From launching Models Inc in 90's Boston with only a 1.5 years of professional experience, Kristie shares how her childhood dreams evolved through a diverse career path. On this journey she spotted a massive gap: where's the diversity in media?
Enter Humankind – Kristie's company pushing for inclusive casting that actually reflects the world we live in. Listen in for the real talk on breaking down barriers in media and wh...
Duration: 00:36:01How Hair Loss Changed Her Life with Tami Wong
Nov 12, 2025Hair loss at 15. A twenty-year journey from hiding to helping others. This week's conversation is all about turning personal struggles into powerful purpose!
We sat down with the incredible Tami Wong, founder of Hair Loss Pride, whose unexpected path from biotech professional to advocate and coach demonstrates how our biggest challenges can become our most meaningful work.
Squiggles You'll Hear:
Tami's journey from childhood dreams of becoming an artist and vet to healthcare and biotechHow being laid off became a hidden blessing that led to writing a children's book and starting a companyThe 20-year... Duration: 00:48:54Navigating the Post-Grad Identity Crisis with Hannah LeBeau
Nov 05, 2025From NFL Sidelines to Therapy Office... What do professional cheerleading and mental health counseling have in common? More than you might think!
This week we dive into the fascinating journey of Hannah LeBeau, who transformed from NFL cheerleader to mental health professional while discovering how these seemingly different worlds actually complement each other perfectly.
🔥 What You'll Hear:
Hannah's path from childhood dance dreams to the NFL sidelinesHow growing up in a single-parent household shaped her views on identity and stabilityHow her cheerleading experience informs her therapy practiceHow Project Sideline was born... Duration: 00:42:11Leap and the Net Will Appear with Kathy Martin
Oct 29, 2025Ever wonder what happens when you jump without knowing where you'll land? Kathy Martin is living proof that sometimes the most unexpected career paths lead to the perfect destination!
We sat down with Dr. Kathy Martin, President and CEO of Glenmeadow senior living community, whose journey from sports management dreams to nonprofit leadership was anything but linear.
What You'll Hear:
How Kathy pivoted from personal training to academia to senior living leadershipWhy transferable skills matter more than industry-specific experienceKathy's refreshing take on career pivots and why you should take the leap no... Duration: 00:42:00Never Underestimate a Woman with Kelly Paxton
Oct 22, 2025Those words were never truer than when Kelly Paxton discovered that the most trusted employees (often women with spotless reputations) were quietly embezzling thousands or millions before anyone noticed.
Kelly's career reads like a spy thriller! What started in the world of commodities trading led to law enforcement. Soon she's a federal special agent, weapon strapped to her hip, chasing criminals in high-speed pursuits... all while pregnant!
But the most fascinating chapter began when Kelly noticed a pattern in some fraud cases. The embezzlers weren't who everyone expected. They were trusted bookkeepers, administrative assistants, and...
Duration: 00:48:31Finding Your Identity After Leaving Teaching with Lauretta Ruppert
Oct 15, 2025“Who am I when I'm not a teacher?” Our first-ever Part Two is here! We continue Lauretta's story after her difficult decision to leave teaching mid-year.
In this episode, Lauretta shares how walking the Camino across Spain became an unexpected path to healing and rediscovery. She opens up about navigating her identity beyond "teacher" and the simple yet profound lessons she found along the way.
What You'll Hear:
Lauretta's experience walking the historic Camino de SantiagoHow this journey helped her process leaving the classroomThe surprising ways simplicity and movement restored her sense of s... Duration: 00:43:05The Courage to Leave Something You Once Loved with Lauretta Ruppert
Oct 08, 2025What happens when the career path you've dreamed about since childhood starts slowly crushing your spirit?
This week, we're diving into the first part of our raw conversation with Lauretta Ruppert, whose journey from aspiring singer to passionate teacher to... well, you'll have to listen to find out!
What You'll Hear:
How Lauretta's childhood dream of being "on stage" transformed into a calling to teachThe beautiful full-circle moment of teaching at her own alma materThe rarely discussed dark side of teaching post-pandemicMoving away from teaching and what to do nextThis...
Duration: 00:47:31Reimagining Success Through Inner Work with Kay Tear
Oct 01, 2025What if the key to professional success isn't found in external achievements, but in understanding your own inner landscape?
This week, we dive deep with Kay Tear, a business psychologist who transformed her own career by turning inward first. From aspiring actress to flight attendant to acclaimed author and coach, Kay's journey reveals how self-awareness becomes your greatest professional superpower.
What You'll Hear:
- How Kay turned "I'll try this until it's not fun anymore" into a surprisingly effective career strategy
- Why understanding your inner world transforms your leadership ability (and relationships!)<...
Permission to Squiggle: A Mother’s Creative Career Journey with Tina Games
Sep 24, 2025Ever felt like motherhood was supposed to put your creative dreams on pause? This episode will flip that narrative on its head!
We sat down with the remarkable Tina Games, whose career journey proves that motherhood isn't a detour from your creative path, it can be the catalyst that brings your truest work to life.
What You'll Hear:
How Tina transformed from aspiring actress to author, coach, and government commissioner through life's twists and turnsThe moment motherhood gave Tina permission to reimagine her career entirelyWhy women often need "permission" to pursue creative... Duration: 00:44:01What Taylor Swift Taught Us About Business: Lessons for Every Entrepreneur with Colleen & Kristine
Sep 17, 2025Okay Squigglers, we're doing something a little different in this episode (cause we are squiggly after all)!
After watching Taylor Swift on the New Heights podcast, we couldn't stop thinking about the GENIUS business and life lessons hidden in that conversation. So naturally, we had to break it all down for you!
What You'll Hear:
How Taylor's master plan to buy back her music is the ultimate negotiation masterclassWhy sharing knowledge is good for allWhy managing your energy (not just your time) is the secret to knowing your true valueThe boundary-setting moves... Duration: 00:31:14Lessons from a Squiggly Entrepreneurial Journey with Anita Costello
Sep 10, 2025“You have to say yes to things in order to know what you're gonna say yes and no to.”
Colleen and Kristine dive into Anita Costello’s squiggle, from her beginnings influenced by her mother's flair for fashion to discovering her passion in high school. Anita shares her path from studying journalism to transitioning into apparel design.
The conversation explores her entrepreneurial journey, the importance of community support, and the development of her own fashion line, Biita. Anita offers insights on overcoming challenges, the balance between creativity and business tasks, and the significance of having a supp...
Duration: 00:39:59How to Bring Squiggly Creativity to Any Industry or Role with Michele Downie
Sep 03, 2025Ever wondered how a creative soul thrives in the world of heavy machinery? This episode is your roadmap!
Join us as we chat with the incredible Michele Downie, marketing powerhouse at American Crane and Equipment Corporation, who's smashing stereotypes and making waves in manufacturing.
What You'll Hear:
Michele's journey from artist to manufacturingHow her creative background became her secret weapon in a technical industryWhy AI tools are her friends for staying ahead of the curveHer refreshingly honest take on retirement planning while still crushing it at work🌟 Connect with Michele:
LinkedIn: Michele Dow... Duration: 00:36:17Trust Your Gut: Intuitive Career Squiggles with Casey Stevens
Aug 27, 2025This week on Embrace the Squiggle, Casey Stevens blew us away with her candid take on mixing traditional therapy with what she calls her "witchy wisdom." From divorce to career zigzags, she kept it real about following your gut - even when life gets messy!
What we love most about Casey is how she bridges science and spirituality without apology. No stuffy therapy talk here - she's all about helping people tap into their intuition and make radical transformations. If you're feeling stuck or just need a reminder to trust yourself, this episode is your sign! Casey...
I Met My Sqiuggly Self for Coffee with Jennae Cecelia
Aug 20, 2025What happens when a poem you write goes viral? Our guest this week knows!
Kristine and Colleen speak to Jennae Cecelia who you may know as the author of the poem “I met my younger self for coffee” to discuss her squiggly path.
Jennae shares how her passion for writing blossomed from her childhood and the key moment when a viral poem on TikTok brought her significant attention. Jennae has self-published 13 books – the most popular being, The Sun Will Rise and So Will We and Healing for No One But Me which have s...
Duration: 00:38:59Behind the Squiggle: Our Producer's Path Across Countries with Lili Paxton
Aug 13, 2025Ever wondered who's working behind the scenes to bring Embrace the Squiggle to life? This week, we flip the script and put our producer, Lili Paxton, in the spotlight!
Episodes Squiggles:
From editing her mom's podcast "Fraudish" to becoming a full-fledged podcast strategistHow Lili's adventurous spirit led her from the US to Spain, Australia, and finally LondonHer journey through the London School of EconomicsThe creative TikTok strategy that helped her build a vibrant community in a new cityLili's unexpected pivot toward sustainabilityJoin us for this behind-the-scenes conversation about taking risks, finding your people across...
Duration: 00:50:26Squiggling Through a People-Centered Career with Amanda Wininger
Aug 06, 2025If helping people is your north star, this episode is for you. This week, we chat with Amanda Wininger who skipped college but still rose through the corporate leadership ranks becoming a doula and yoga instructor. It many seem random, but it's all been about helping people.
Episode Highlights:
How Amanda recognized and leveraged her natural talent for supporting othersThe surprising parallels between corporate HR and birth supportWhy emotional intelligence trumps technical skills in leadershipSetting boundaries as an act of self-preservation and leadershipAmanda shares practical wisdom on creating authentic human connections in both work...
Duration: 00:37:19The Squiggliest Episode Yet with Colleen and Kristine
Jul 30, 2025Ever found yourself nodding along to career advice that doesn't actually feel right for YOU? This week, your favorite career coaches throw out the rulebook completely! Colleen and Kristine tackle the question we've all secretly wondered: "Do I really want that promotion, or am I just supposed to want it?"
What We're Squiggling About:
The permission slip you need to define success YOUR way (even if it means saying no to that fancy title)Why keeping a "humble brag" list isn't conceited, it's career self-defenseThe surprising freedom in considering a demotion (yes, really!)How we're both... Duration: 00:39:04Stop Doing Everything: Strength Based Team Building with Lindsay LaBonte
Jul 23, 2025Ever wondered what happens when "Take Your Daughter to Work Day" turns into a full-blown career? This week's episode is a delightful deep dive with Lindsay LaBonte, who turned her childhood fascination with her dad's mortgage business into her own financial industry adventure!
What's in store:
The real story of how Lindsay went from "playing bank" as a kid to actually running one 🏦The juggling act of motherhood, leadership, and that pesky thing called "parental expectations"How to delegate better as a leaderWhy discovering your strengths might be better than therapy (StrengthsFinder for the win!)Lin...
Duration: 00:37:41The 20-Year Squiggle: Thriving Through Internal Career Pivots with Darcey Bennett
Jul 16, 2025Ever wondered what a Chief of Staff actually does… and how to become one? This episode unveils the squiggly career moves that can lead to this powerful but often misunderstood role.
What You'll Discover:
How to leverage research skills from academia into business advantageThe unspoken challenges of managing teams at a young ageWhy the Chief of Staff role might be the perfect fit for "connectors" and strategic thinkersStrategic pivots between large corporations and nimble startupsDarcey Bennett shares her journey from Smith College research associate to Chief of Staff at multiple organizations including Gartner, CEB, El...
Duration: 00:47:49Squiggling Through the Messy Middle with Miranda Lievers, Co-Founder of Thinkific
Jul 09, 2025Questioning your career path? This week's guest went from working a normal corporate job to co-founding a tech company with a billion-dollar IPO—and reveals the unconventional wisdom that guided her journey.
What You'll Gain:
Permission to leave "secure" jobs when they no longer serve your growthHow side hustles can transform into unexpected career opportunitiesThe unfiltered truth about entrepreneurship's messy, non-linear realityStrategies for recognizing when it's time for your next pivotMiranda Lievers shares her remarkable path from corporate job at Telus to photography business owner to Thinkific co-founder, proving that career success often comes th...
Duration: 00:48:03Career Zigzags Are the Ultimate Competitive Edge with Anya Cheng
Jul 02, 2025Feeling like your diverse background is holding you back? This week's guest went from investigative journalism in Taiwan to launching an AI fashion startup—and will transform how you see your own career "detours."
What You'll Learn:
How to reframe past experiences as unique competitive advantagesThe confidence to make bold pivots between seemingly unrelated industriesPractical strategies for women breaking into tech leadershipAnya Cheng (Meta, eBay, McDonald's, Target) shares the counterintuitive moves that took her from reporter to founding Taelor, proving that the most interesting careers rarely follow a straight line—and yours doesn't need to e...
Duration: 00:44:48How to Pivot Without Losing Momentum with Kokui Adesokan
Jun 25, 2025Ever feel like your career path looks more like a game of pinball than a straight line? (Same.) In this episode, we chat with the amazing Kokui Adesokan about her squiggly journey from growing up in Togo to thriving in the U.S. aerospace and tech industries.
Kokui opens up about the pivots, plot twists, and big leaps of faith that shaped her career—from studying chemical engineering to finding her groove in aerospace, and all the moments of “sure, I’ll try that” in between.
We dig into:
How community college changed her lifeStum... Duration: 00:39:11Why Is Clarity Missing And What Can You Do About It?
Jun 18, 2025Feeling lost in the fog of vague directives? You're not alone! In this straight-talking episode, Colleen and Kristine tackle the frustrating reality of unclear organizational goals that leave middle managers dangling.
Highlights:
Gallup reveals how many employees are actually working in the darkWhy unclear direction doesn't just hurt productivity—it undermines psychological safetySpecific strategies to navigate when your higher-ups can't articulate what success looks likeThe critical window for implementing changes when you've just taken a leadership roleWhether you're struggling to translate fuzzy objectives to your team or trying to impress leaders who keep moving th...
Duration: 00:42:10Stop and Celebrate Yourself, You Deserve It! with Robyn Glaser
Jun 11, 2025Are you the kind of person who hits a big milestone… then immediately moves on to the next goal? Same. In this episode, we’re talking to Robyn Glaser—venture executive and all-around badass—about why high-achieving women so often skip the celebration phase, and how that needs to change.
We loved this conversation with Robyn Glaser — and we think you will too. 🙌
We talk about:
✨ What it’s like to break into male-dominated industries
🎶 Why saying yes to new opportunities (even scary ones) matters
📬 How to handle rejection without letting it crush your confidence
Finding a Mentor Who Lifts You Up with Christina Mitine
Jun 04, 2025What a delight chatting with Christina Mitine about her fascinating career path! From aspiring veterinarian to Oracle sales to various AWS roles, her journey proves there's no "right way" to build a meaningful career.
Episode Highlights:
Christina shares how the Women in Revenue Group on Lin provided crucial networking opportunitiesWe discuss navigating different company cultures and leveraging transferable skillsThe vital importance of finding mentors and sponsors who champion your growthBuilding professional networks that extend beyond your current organizationConnect with Christina: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cmitine/
Women in Revenue (WIR)...
Duration: 00:38:44The Not-So- Secret Ingredient to a Thriving Squiggly Career with Soo Finley
May 28, 2025Maintaining genuine professional relationships isn’t just nice, it’s essential. In this episode, we talk about how staying in touch (even casually) can quietly shape your career in powerful ways—and how it’s played out over decades for our guest, Soo Finley.
This week, I got to catch up with my high school friend Soo Finley, who now works at the executive level in banking—and let me tell you, her career path has been anything but predictable (just the way we like it on this show). Soo walks us through her squiggly journey from Hicksville...
What Happens When Work Finally Feels Good with Bonni Scepkowski
May 21, 2025What does it take to build a thriving business while navigating some of life’s toughest personal challenges?
This week on Embrace the Squiggle, Colleen and Kristine sit down with the unstoppable Bonni Scepkowski. She is an award-winning meeting strategist, founder of Stellar Meetings, and a master of orchestrating meaningful moments in the life sciences industry. But behind her professional success is a deeply personal journey of resilience, reinvention, and relentless authenticity.
From her first job at a travel agency to becoming a sought-after events expert, Bonni shares the career pivots, life-altering moments, and hard-won wi...
Duration: 00:43:36Starting the HR Revolution with Ashleigh Beadle
May 14, 2025What if the skills you already have could open the door to a career you actually love?
This week, we’re joined by the brilliant Ashleigh Beadle, who opens up about her non-linear path from law school dreams to launching her own consulting business.
Ashleigh shares the real story behind her career pivots—what worked, what didn’t, and how she leaned into her transferable skills (even when things didn’t go to plan). We chat about navigating uncertainty, staying aligned with your values, and how she’s now helping small businesses with HR and compliance...
Duration: 00:39:33Mastering Public Speaking for Your Squiggly Career with Colleen and Kristine
May 07, 2025Terrified of Public Speaking? You’re Not Alone, And We’ve Got You Covered. 🎤😅
In this episode of Embrace the Squiggle, Colleen and Kristine get real about the nerves, mindset shifts, and messy moments behind the mic. From giving a TEDx talk to delivering a major keynote, they’re pulling back the curtain on what it really takes to speak with confidence... and why you don’t need to be perfect to be powerful.
You’ll hear:
How they prepped for their biggest speaking gigs yetWhy practicing > memorizing (and how to do it right)The unexpected t... Duration: 00:27:42Turning a Challenging Past into a Purpose-Driven Career with Kelly Martins
Apr 30, 2025What if the very things that once held you back became the foundation for everything you built?
In this episode of Embrace the Squiggle, Kelly Martins joins Colleen and Kristine to share the real story behind her squiggly career journey. From a background in graphic design and photography to launching her own consulting business focused on empowering others through strategic marketing and leadership support.
Kelly opens up about reclaiming her confidence after leaving a difficult relationship, and how leaning into her lived experiences became the spark for creating GRATI Consulting. Today, she combines sharp business...
Duration: 00:35:52Being an Introvert in an Extroverted Career with Nellie Beckett
Apr 23, 2025"I’m an introvert... but what I do for a living is an extroverts dream.”
Ever felt like your personality didn’t quite match your job title? This week on Embrace the Squiggle, Nellie Beckett gets real about navigating that exact tension—and how she’s turned it into one of her biggest strengths.
From nonprofit gigs and teaching in Baltimore to creating meaningful community connections in public radio across the Deep South, Nellie’s story is a masterclass in showing up, even when you’re not sure what’s next.
You’ll hear:
- W...
The Transformational Power of Taking Career Risks with Moe Belliveau
Apr 16, 2025What do marine biology, massage therapy, and managing a Chamber of Commerce have in common? Moe's career journey.
In this episode of Embrace the Squiggle, Colleen sits down with Moe Belliveau, the Executive Director of the East Hampton Chamber, for a conversation that’s anything but linear. With Kristine away, Colleen dives into Moe’s fascinating path, from dreaming of becoming a marine biologist, to drawing blueprints in architectural drafting, navigating the structure of corporate life at Aetna, building a massage therapy business from scratch, and ultimately leading her local Chamber of Commerce.
Moe’...
Duration: 00:39:06Leaving Misaligned Jobs Led to Her Dream Career with Patrika Alis Cheston
Apr 09, 2025Kristine and Colleen chat with Patrika Alis Cheston, a marketing and sales strategist who’s anything but conventional. Patrika walks us through her winding career path—from studying education and journalism to leading strategy for startups and founding her own ventures, Roundology and Outsource SDR.
She opens up about the power of internships, why it’s okay to pivot (again and again), and how recognizing misaligned values at work pushed her to build a career on her own terms.
Plus, we dive into her love for solo travel, how she finds joy in off-the-beaten-path destinations, and wh...
How a Health Scare Ignited Her Squiggly Career with Lisa Michaud
Apr 02, 2025How do you turn career pivots into purpose-driven success? This week, Kristine and Colleen sit down with Lisa Michaud, a real estate investor, entrepreneur, and former HR and accounting professional, to explore her incredible career evolution. Lisa opens up about the mindset shifts that helped her navigate multiple career transitions, the power of mentorship, and why personal challenges—including a major health scare—forced her to redefine success on her own terms.
In this episode, you'll learn:
✨ How adaptability and intentionality shape a fulfilling career
✨ The role of mentors in guiding career transformation
✨ Wh...
From Peer to Boss: Navigating the Awkward Shift with Kristine and Colleen
Mar 26, 2025What happens when you're suddenly in charge of the people you used to work alongside? In this episode, Colleen and Kristine unpack the tricky dynamics of leadership transitions—especially when it means managing former colleagues and friends.
They share real talk on:
Setting new boundaries (without being a jerk)Navigating emotional landmines with emotional intelligenceRedefining relationships at workThe shift from control to compassion in modern leadershipWhy knowing your team’s strengths is your real power movePlus: We're now on YouTube! Come see the new recording setup in action.
🎤 Want to be a guest...
Duration: 00:27:52Curiosity is the Compass of Your Squiggly Career with Karen Single
Mar 19, 2025Colleen and Kristine sit down with Karen Single for a candid and inspiring conversation about embracing the unexpected turns in a career.
Karen opens up about her journey—from dreaming of becoming a teacher in the 1960s to facing academic dismissal from college, and ultimately carving out a fulfilling path in higher education. She reflects on career pivots, including a detour into the corporate world at Fidelity, stepping back to prioritize family, and eventually returning to student-facing work at Wheaton College.
This episode dives deep into the real stories behind hiring practices, the power of cu...
Duration: 00:42:08Choosing Between Corporate and Entrepreneurship with Michelle Wirth
Mar 12, 2025In this episode of Embrace the Squiggle, Colleen and Kristine sit down with Michelle Wirth, an inspiring entrepreneur and former engineer who has navigated a truly remarkable career journey. From dreaming of becoming Oprah to breaking barriers in engineering and public relations at Mercedes-Benz, Michelle shares the lessons and challenges that shaped her path. Tune in to hear Michelle’s story of resilience, reinvention, and community impact. If you’re looking for motivation to embrace career transitions, support local businesses, and step into leadership with confidence, this episode is for you!
Topics Covered:
✅ Michelle’s unconv...
When Life Throws Curveballs with Michelle Hooey
Mar 05, 2025Kristine and Colleen sit down with Michelle Hooey to explore the nonlinear paths of career growth, personal transformation, and navigating life’s toughest challenges. After nearly two decades in corporate leadership, Michelle hit burnout while also facing profound personal struggles—multiple pregnancy losses and the birth of her daughter, Goldie, in 2023, who was born with complex medical needs. This experience reshaped her world, leading her on a deep spiritual journey and ultimately to becoming a certified Quantum Coach.
Today, Michelle is committed to creating a purpose-driven life, both for herself and for the busy moms she now help...
Duration: 00:46:58The Power of Community in Career Growth with Luzed Guzman Romano
Feb 26, 2025Colleen and Kristine kick things off with LinkedIn advice for anyone facing layoffs, then dive into an inspiring conversation with Luzed Guzman Romano, a top-performing sales leader and advocate for women in Massachusetts.
💡 In This Episode:
✨ How to authentically present yourself on social media after a job loss
✨ The power of compassionate leadership & community
✨ Luzed’s journey from nonprofit work to corporate success
✨ How mentorship and women leaders shaped her career
Plus, fun rapid-fire questions & book recommendations! 📚
🔗 Connect with Luzed:
👉 LinkedIn
👉 MassLive Feature
🎤 Want to be a gu...
Duration: 00:42:18Networking Without the Ick: How to Build Genuine Connections with Colleen and Kristine
Feb 19, 2025Hate the idea of networking? You’re not alone. This week, Colleen and Kristine break down how to make networking feel natural—not slimy.
💡 Why networking isn’t just about job-hunting
💡 How to build connections without an agenda
💡 Easy ways to expand your network (LinkedIn, local events & more!)
💡 Simple LinkedIn strategies to boost your visibility
Ditch the awkwardness and start making connections that actually matter. Tune in now!
Want to be a guest in 2025? Apply here!
🔗 Connect with Colleen & Kristine:
🌟 Colleen on LinkedIn
🌟 Kristine on Linked
Navigating Your Squiggly Career in a Changing World with Paige Carbone
Feb 12, 2025Is your college student (or maybe you!) wondering how LinkedIn can help land that first job? This episode is packed with practical career advice to make job searching easier and more effective.
This week on Embrace the Squiggle, Colleen and Kristine sit down with Paige Carbone, Regional Executive Director for MADD, to uncover key lessons from her career journey—from college admissions to nonprofit leadership. The episode shares insider tips on LinkedIn for job seekers, how to align career choices with personal values, and why knowing your strengths can set you apart.
...
Duration: 00:46:40Building a Business from the Saddle with Maggie Clancy
Feb 05, 2025In this episode of Embrace the Squiggle, Colleen and Kristine sit down with Maggie Clancy, an entrepreneur and riding academy owner, to discuss resilience, leadership, and making bold career shifts.
From an early dream of medical school to building a thriving horse business, Maggie shares the lessons she’s learned along the way—including how working with horses shaped her leadership skills. She also opens up about the challenges of running a business from her own property, setting boundaries as an entrepreneur, and the tough decision to shut down an app she developed.
This...
Duration: 00:42:48Thriving Through Workplace Curveballs with Colleen and Kristine
Jan 29, 2025In this episode of Embrace the Squiggle, Colleen and Kristine tackle two impactful listener questions that highlight the challenges of leadership and the importance of work-life balance.
💡 Leadership Challenges: Listener 1 writes in about how to handle inaccurate data from colleagues that’s impacting her reports and reputation. Colleen and Kristine share strategies for:
Communicating effectively with your team.Building trust to address issues constructively.Creating a collaborative work environment to solve recurring problems.⏳ Reclaiming Your Balance: Inspired by listener 2 who realized her life was entirely defined by work, the hosts discuss actionable ways to:
Set bou... Duration: 00:29:57Following Your Squiggly Path with Emmy Award-winning producer Shirley Neal
Jan 22, 2025Colleen and Kristine sit down with Emmy Award-winning producer, journalist, and author Shirley Neal to explore careers, creativity, and the power of perseverance.
🌍 Shirley shares her journey from TV writing and production to authoring her debut book, Afrocentric Style: A Celebration of Blackness & Identity in Pop Culture. The discussion dives into:
✨ Navigating career challenges and following your intuition
✨ The significance of travel in shaping career decisions
✨ Staying current in your field and adapting to change
📖 Shirley also gives an inside look into her new book, a stunning exploration of Black identity and culture thro...
Duration: 00:46:50When the Boss Checks Out: Tackling Disengaged Leadership with Colleen & Kristine
Jan 15, 2025Have you ever had a boss who is just checked out?
Colleen and Kristine delve into the challenges of disengaged leadership and its impact on teams. They explore how overburdened and under-trained leaders can unintentionally harm team dynamics and productivity. The discussion includes strategies for effective communication, the importance of weekly feedback, and the value of hiring complementary skills to build a well-rounded team. They also touch on the concepts of reverse mentoring and cultivating a personal board of directors for leaders.
Interested in being a guest on the podcast in 2025? Fill out our application...
Duration: 00:33:16Finding Purpose in the Pivot with Ja’Milla Lomas
Jan 08, 2025In this episode of Embrace the Squiggle, Colleen and Kristine sit down with Ja'Milla Lomas, a dynamic professional whose career is as multifaceted as her talents. From dreaming of becoming a cardiovascular surgeon ballerina to thriving in communications and community service, Ja'Milla's journey is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the power of finding your true purpose.
Born and raised in Houston, Ja'Milla reflects on her path of self-discovery, from her transformative years at Smith College to navigating career shifts that spanned retail, experiential marketing, and special events. Now serving as the Public Information Officer and Community...
Duration: 00:44:54Highs and Lows of the Music Industry with Shannon Herber
Jan 01, 2025Were you a theatre kid? Do you think you have used your theatre kid skills in your squiggly career?
This week we speak with Shannon Herber to discuss her squiggly career journey from musical theatre and her pivot into the music industry. Shannon’s story is a testament to the power of adaptability, continuous learning, and embracing life's unexpected turns.
Shannon is the Founder & Chief Consultant of the music industry consulting firm Wise River Consulting. Wise River works at the intersection of music and tech, introducing artists, labels and managers to the ways in which em...
Duration: 00:51:13One Year of Embrace the Squiggle: Approaching Internal Promotions with Colleen & Kristine
Dec 18, 2024This episode is a celebration of squiggles and commitment! We went all in on this podcast, and it has been such a pleasure to make this squiggly podcast for you all. This episode not only a celebration, but also includes a focus on navigating internal promotions, building networks, and leveraging mentorship and sponsorship. We also discuss the differences between mentorship and sponsorship and share personal stories of career growth, rejection, and success.
Interested in being a guest on the podcast in 2025? Fill out our application here https://forms.gle/QX6a9a7cV76VYzbt9
Connect...
Duration: 00:39:56Becoming a Connector in Your Community with Dawn Creighton
Dec 11, 2024This episode of Embrace the Squiggle Dawn Creighton shares her squiggly path starting from her childhood dreams of being in cosmetology to her diverse roles in banking, sales, nonprofit management, and community outreach. She emphasizes the importance of authenticity, resilience, following one's gut, and valuing personal experiences and connections above material possessions.
Dawn Creighton is Assistant Vice President, Community Outreach Officer, Western Massachusetts Market, Liberty Bank. Dawn is highly connected in the Western Massachusetts community through her work past experiences with the Associated Industries of MA, Greenfield Community College, MassHire Holyoke, and Corporation for Public Management. She...
Duration: 00:44:43Finding the Right Leadership to Thrive Under with Joan Perreault
Dec 04, 2024Did you have a dream job that once you got it, you actually didn’t like that much? This episode is for you.
This week on Embrace the Squiggle we hear from Joan Perreault, who discusses what its like to have a dream job for 15 years that ends up not being everything she thought it would be. They explore the importance of leadership in job satisfaction, tips for identifying the right leader during a job search.
Joan has navigated through various roles and industries along her very squiggly career path. Her career journey has taken he...
Duration: 00:41:43Creating Value in Your Squiggly Career with Elissa Unton
Nov 27, 2024This episode of Embrace the Squiggle asks the question, do you really need that fancy degree?
Elissa Unton shares with us about her non-linear career path. Elissa shares insights from her roles in valuation, investor relations, and her experience launching a successful advocacy project for homeless support. They delve into the value of networking, the importance of finding work that leverages one's strengths, and provide advice for considering an MBA.
Connect with Elissa: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elissaunton/
Instagram @elissainLA
Her Answers to Speed Round:
Color: teal-green (plants!)
<... Duration: 00:48:20Out of Office: How to Prepare For and Enjoy Time Off
Nov 20, 2024This episode of Embrace the Squiggle, Colleen and Kristine discuss OOO (aka out of office) and reflect on the importance of preparing for time off. They share strategies for leaders and team members to ensure smooth operations during absences, such as clear communication, setting boundaries, and delegating tasks. If you’re about to take some time off, this episode is for you! And if you don't have any vacations planned right now, this is your reminder to plan some time off.
Interested in being a guest on the podcast in 2025? Fill out our application here: https://forms.gle...
Duration: 00:35:37Going Pro in Your Squiggly Career with Jessica Colson
Nov 13, 2024This week Colleen chats with Jess Colson, a dynamic professional with a background in higher education fundraising, sports management, and nonprofit leadership. A lover of all things sports, Jess chooses to invest her time into running a successful softball training company, NWS Fastpitch, and advocating for equity for women in the sports industry. After thousands of casual conversations between friends remarking on how sports impacted their careers and relationships, Jess launched The Postgame Amateurs Podcast in 2022 to shine a light on the incredible women who “went pro” in something other than athletics. Jess has been a staff member of Girl...
Duration: 00:38:51LIVE Career Coaching Session with Kim Isil
Nov 06, 2024This episode of Embrace the Squiggle Kim Isil gets coached LIVE! Kim reached out to us on TikTok and we are so happy to dig into her career squiggle with you live. Kim shares her unconventional career journey from aspiring veterinarian to becoming a flight attendant for the military, and later moving into HR and recruiting, Kim's story is filled with unexpected twists and turns. The discussion delves deep into career transformations, exploring the importance of finding passion, building connections, and being open to new industries. This episode is full of practical advice on how to approach career change...
Duration: 00:47:24Becoming Your Most Confident Self with Suzanne Parker
Oct 30, 2024This week on Embrace the Squiggle we get into confidence and how to ind your most confident self! Suzanne Parker Joins us to share her dynamic career journey from music education to nonprofit leadership. Suzanne shares all about her evolving career path that led her to the nonprofit sector. They discuss Suzanne's impactful work with Girls Inc., an organization dedicated to empowering young girls through health, education, and leadership programs, and emphasizes the importance of confidence-building and community involvement.
Connect with Suzanne on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suzanne-parker-70548313/
Check out Girls Inc.: https...
Duration: 00:38:29Making Time Management Your Superpower with Colleen and Kristine
Oct 23, 2024Colleen and Kristine explore time management techniques for leaders, discussing the challenges of delegating tasks, adjusting to new roles, and understanding personal time management styles. They share insights on setting effective boundaries, communicating clearly, and making productive use of resources. Tune in to discover strategies that help reclaim your time, master delegation, and boost efficiency!
Connect and learn more from Colleen at www.maxady.com and on Linkedin at www.linkedin.com/in/comara
Connect and learn more from Kristine at https://www.kristinethody.com and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody<...
Duration: 00:22:14Embracing your Childhood Dream Job with Kristin Fichera
Oct 16, 2024This week on Embrace the Squiggle, Kristin Fichera joins us to share her experiences figuring out that her dream job was the first job she ever dreamed of. Her story involves significant life decisions and a pursuit of happiness that aligns with her own values. She highlights the importance of authenticity, networking, and making career decisions from a position of strength. Kristen's story is a testament to embracing the unexpected squiggly turns in one’s career while staying true to personal values and happiness.
Connect with Kristin:
Kristin's Insta
Insta: MsFishHasAWish
Kr...
Duration: 00:55:28The Power of International Experiences with Laurel McLaughlin
Oct 09, 2024In this episode of Embrace the Squiggle, Kristine and Colleen dive into an enriching conversation with longtime listener Laurel McLaughlin about the transformative impact of international experiences on empathy and career development. Laurel shares her journey from studying art history and teaching abroad to working in web communications at Clark University, highlighting the importance of creativity, adaptability, and continuous learning. Tune in for insights on weaving diverse experiences into a fulfilling career and the value of liberal arts education.
Connect with Laurel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurel-mclaughlin-4331a3b1/
Connect and learn...
Duration: 00:30:47Choosing Entrepreneurship after a Life-Changing Diagnosis with Ashley Tresoline
Oct 02, 2024Colleen and Kristine speak with Ashley Tresoline who shares her career journey from aspiring figure skater to holistic personal chef and food educator with her business, Bella Foodie. Diagnosed with MS at 21, Ashley recounts her struggle and how she learned to leverage nutrition to manage her symptoms. She discusses her first job in finance, transitioning into entrepreneurship, and the importance of balancing medical and holistic treatments. Ashley offers insights on healthy snacking, the power of nutrition, and maintaining a positive outlook despite challenges.
Connect with Ashley:
On Linkedin
On Facebook
On I...
Duration: 00:41:50Finding Career Purpose After Grief with Joy Hermansen
Sep 25, 2024Colleen and Kristine chat with Joy Hermansen about her journey from practicing law to navigating grief and ultimately finding her passion in nonprofit leadership and executive education. Joy shares insights on coping with loss, shifting career paths, and the importance of purpose in one's professional life. Listeners will hear about the power of volunteering, transferable skills, and the realization that it's never too late to be who you might have been. This conversation highlights the importance of following your passions and embracing the unexpected twists and turns in your career journey.
Connect with Joy on LinkedIn: https...
Duration: 00:46:25Finding Clarity to Make Career Goals with Roxanne St. Pierre
Sep 18, 2024A successful career squiggle is full of talking to people you know, making connections, and setting goals.
Kristine and Colleen chat with Roxanne St. Pierre about her diverse career journey from communications to HR, her involvement in major events like the Winter Carnival and the Olympics, and her recent entrepreneurial venture into creating notebooks. Roxanne shares invaluable insights on career clarity, adaptability, and the significance of setting clear goals. Tune in to learn how to embrace your career's twists and turns with confidence.
Link to the Time Management TED Talk: https://www.ted.com/talks...
Duration: 00:43:36Facing Rejection and Moving Forward with Jessica Bacal
Sep 11, 2024Facing a challenging career transition? This week Colleen and Kristine talk with Jessica Bacal about practical steps for those feeling stuck in their current jobs. Jess also shares her unique career journey, including her role at Smith College, authoring books on rejection and mistakes, and her thoughts on gap years for students.
Jessica Bacal is the editor of two books, Mistakes I Made at Work (2014) and The Rejection That Changed My Life (2021), both published by Penguin Random House. She is Director of Reflective Practices at Smith College, in Northampton, Massachusetts, where she helps students explore identity and...
Duration: 00:39:32Life Lessons from 3 Years in Prison with Andreea Parc
Sep 04, 2024In this episode of Embrace the Squiggle, Colleen and Kristine speak with Andreea Parc about her unique career journey from Romania to New York City to prison! Andreea shares her profound experiences, including almost three years in federal prison, and how she rebuilt her life using her A.P.P.L.E. technique—Awareness, Perspective, Presence, Letting Go, and Empowerment. Join them as they uncover the hidden gems of career transformation and the true meaning of success beyond titles and monetary gains.
Are you looking to change careers, but have no idea what you might want to...
Duration: 00:34:04The Truth About Unlimited PTO with Colleen and Kristine
Aug 28, 2024In this episode of Embrace the Squiggle, Colleen and Kristine delve into the concept of unlimited PTO, its implications for employees, and why it often benefits the company more than the employee. They offer essential advice on how to navigate job offers, especially with unlimited PTO clauses, and stress the importance of asking clarifying questions. The conversation shifts to the significance of trust within teams, how managers can cultivate it, and the common pitfalls that lead to distrust and micromanagement. They wrap up by discussing the importance of knowing personal motivators and needs for optimal performance, both in professional...
Duration: 00:26:13Discovering Your Career North Star with Betty Rhoades, CEO of She Speaks Coaching & Consulting
Aug 21, 2024This week on Embrace the Squiggle, Colleen and Kristine dive into an insightful conversation with Betty Rhodes, founder and CEO of She Speaks Coaching & Consulting.
Betty shares her journey from law school to nearly two decades in public service, and eventually into the world of wine as a Certified Sommelier. They discuss the importance of clear communication from leaders in organizations, navigating career pivots, and blending seemingly disparate interests into a cohesive professional path.
Tune in for actionable tips on using critical thinking, the value of strategic planning, and finding your North Star in both...
Duration: 00:48:59From Roomba to Startups: Embracing Bold Career Shifts with Nancy Dussault Smith
Aug 14, 2024Colleen and Kristine dive into the squiggly career journey of Nancy Dussault Smith. With over 20 years in sales and marketing of high technology products, Nancy unfolds her transformative path from aspiring to work for the FBI, to leasing cars, and eventually spearheading the launch of the world-famous Roomba at iRobot. Listen in as Nancy shares insights on career pivots, the importance of self-awareness and feedback in leadership, developing talent, and her latest leap into entrepreneurship with her new marketing consultancy.
Are you looking to change careers, but have no idea what you might want to do...
Duration: 00:45:51Using Fashion & Style to Communicate Your Personal Brand with Kendra Porter, Image Consultant & Wardrobe Stylist
Aug 07, 2024In this episode of Embrace the Squiggle, hosts Colleen and Kristine engage with Kendra Porter, an image consultant and wardrobe stylist. Kendra shares her journey from childhood career dreams to her current role in fashion and personal branding. She discusses how clothing and style play a crucial role in personal branding, the importance of tailoring and fit, and how one's wardrobe can reflect their professional and personal growth. The conversation covers practical advice for aligning your wardrobe with your personal brand and the psychological impact of what you wear. Kendra also touches on her multifaceted career, including teaching at...
Duration: 00:51:38Going Where Authenticity is Valued with Lesli Ann Agcaoili
Jul 31, 2024This week on Embrace the Squiggle, Colleen and Kristine welcome back the remarkable Lesli Ann Agcaoili for an insightful discussion on career transformation as Leslie shares her experiences on various prestigious boards, including Smith College and the University of Michigan. Lesli dives into the intricacies of nominating committees, the importance of community and volunteering, and the role of alumni engagements in professional growth. The conversation also explores themes of authenticity, leadership in male-dominated spaces, and the importance of finding alignment with your values in both professional and volunteer roles. Tune in for invaluable advice on navigating career challenges and...
Duration: 00:49:03Career Changes with the Seasons of Life with Ena Lebel
Jul 24, 2024This week on Embrace the Squiggle, Colleen and Kristine sit down with Ena Lebel to explore her multifaceted career journey from aspiring women’s rights lawyer to becoming a corporate lawyer and ultimately transitioning into nonprofit leadership. Ena shares deep insights into how her experiences in big law and consulting shaped her current role as the Executive Director of the Pittsburgh Legal Diversity and Inclusion Coalition. Learn about the importance of values-driven career choices, the power of a strong network, and the evolving nature of professional seasons. Whether you're at the start of your career or contemplating a change, th...
Duration: 00:46:32Identifying Red Flags in Job Postings with Colleen and Kristine
Jul 17, 2024In this episode of Embrace the Squiggle, Colleen and Kristine explore the alarming rise of job scams and share accounts of LinkedIn scams that have fooled people. They discuss telltale signs of scams and how to avoid them.
They dig into proactive job search strategies, emphasizing networking over blind applications, leveraging LinkedIn effectively, and the significance of emotional intelligence in career development. Colleen and Kristine also underscore the value of understanding personal and managerial strengths and needs through tools like CliftonStrengths. This episode is a deep dive into safeguarding your job search and building a resilient professional...
Duration: 00:37:43Why You Should Be Authentically YOU in the Job Search with Rachel Lerner-Ley
Jul 10, 2024This week on Embrace the Squiggle Colleen and Kristine speak with Rachel Lerner-Ley about how being interesting and authentic landed her the job she wanted! We dig into who you shouldn’t conform in interviews and how your unique perspectives and experiences are what will land you the right gig for you.
Rachel Lerner-Ley is the Merkin Prize & New Directions Scholars Program Manager at the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard. Prior to the Broad, she worked in the artistic department at Cleveland Play House (recipient of the 2015 Regional Theatre Tony Award), first as the artistic associate and...
Duration: 00:46:51Discovering Joy and Growth in Solo Travel with Joy Huber
Jul 03, 2024This week on Embrace the Squiggle, Colleen speaks with Joy Huber about how a cancer diagnosis changed her life squiggle, why she loves solo travel, and moving towards instead of away.
Colleen and Kristine discuss the pervasive issue of meeting overload among their clients. They share insights on time management, the importance of prioritizing meetings, and the liberating power of saying 'no.'
Find Joy on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/joyhuber/
and Facebook and Instagram
You can connect with Colleen at www.maxady.com and on LinkedIn at link...
Duration: 00:48:17Empowering Women to Make Six Figures with Ashanta Coleman
Jun 26, 2024This week on Embrace the Squiggle, Colleen and Kristine speak to Ashanta Coleman about how she has overcome adversity and used it to empower other women. They discuss how being a mom has impacted her career, how COVID changed work forever, and how a life changing event or loss can still lead to some positive change.
Ashanta Coleman is a dedicated professional with a passion for fostering intentional connections to best serve Qwerkz’s clients and staff. With extensive experience in talent acquisition and HR operations, she has been instrumental in building high-performing teams. In her free tim...
Duration: 00:50:48Innovation Requires Confidence with Ashli Stempel
Jun 19, 2024This week on Embrace the Squiggle, Colleen and Kristine speak with Ashli Stempel about boosting your confidence and how career squiggles have led her to success.
In the episode they discuss owning your strengths, expertise and building a team so that everyone shines. Ashli shared how being a woman in business has impacted her work method and how her career has squiggled. Ashli and Kristine share how grief has impacted their lives and what they value.
Ashli Stempel is a content strategist for MassMutual, and carries more than 15 years’ experience driving communications, change management, and busi...
Resume 101: Do’s and Don'ts of Resumes with Colleen and Kristine
Jun 12, 2024This week on Embrace the Squiggle Colleen and Kristine are diving into all of the resume do’s and don'ts!
If you have found yourself endlessly applying for jobs with little to no progress, let’s make sure your resume is in tip-top shape! And if you aren’t even looking for a new job, we should always be updating our resumes and keeping track of job accomplishments and new skills.
Connect with Colleen at www.maxady.com and on Linkedin at www.linkedin.com/in/comara
Connect with Krsitine at https://www.kristine...
Duration: 00:41:29Should You Actually Get a Master’s Degree? with Melissa Vining, Career Coach
Jun 05, 2024Have you thought about getting a Master’s degree just because you don’t know what to do with your career next? STOP and listen to this episode before you spend $100k on Grad School!
This week on Embrace the Squiggle Colleen and Kristine speak with Melissa Vining about her career squiggles from professional musician, to masters student, to career coach.
Empowering Creative Careers with Professional Singer and Purpose-Driven Executive, Lori Murphy
May 29, 2024This week on Embrace the Squiggle, Colleen and Kristine sit down with the multi-talented Lori Murphy, a purpose-driven executive and former professional studio singer. Lori shares her inspiring journey from singing at weddings and jingles for commercials to becoming a recognized leader in client management and corporate partnerships.
Discover how Lori's parents encouraged her to pursue her passions over practicality, setting the stage for her diverse and fulfilling career. Lori opens up about her experiences adjusting to industry changes, the significance of Clifton StrengthsFinders in her professional life, and how her background in music continues to influence...
Duration: 00:49:01The Art of Receiving Feedback with Lori Schoenhard, PMP
May 22, 2024Can your colleagues find you crying in the bathroom when you receive any feedback at work? It’s not uncommon, but let’s figure out how you can step out of the negative emotions and use feedback for the positive!
This week on Embrace the Squiggle Colleen and Kristine speak with Lori Schoenhard about how to take calculated risk in your career and taking feedback well. They get into how to decide that a career path you went to school for and spent years pursuing, actually isn’t the right fit after all. Lori shares how she navigat...
Duration: 00:46:32Finding and Creating the Perfect Role For You with Wendy Sutowski, CMP
May 15, 2024Spot a gap in your company that you can fill with your knowledge and skills? What's stopping you from creating that role for yourself!
This week on Embrace the Squiggle Colleen and Kristine welcome Wendy Sutowski to discuss her squiggly career in hospitality. They dive into transferable skills, getting what you need out of a job, and articulating your strengths. Also, Taylor Swift and The Torture Poets Department may come up!
Wendy has 25+ years of crazy experience in hospitality. She worships at the altar of superior customer experience and product delivery. Her passion is for coac...
Duration: 00:42:37Why Values Should Guide Your Career Squiggle with Colleen & Kristine
May 08, 2024Have you ever been denied a vacation request? Did it bother you enough to pursue a new job?
This week on Embrace the Squiggle Colleen and Kristine get into your questions about career squiggles and their advice on how to approach values differences with your organization.
Some topics covered in this episode include leaving a position because they denied a vacation request and how to find a role that has the same values as you. How to get promoted in your organization and how to know when your organization is holding ba...
Duration: 00:46:42Your Career Squiggle is Starting to Come Alive with Lesli Ann Agcaoili
May 01, 2024This week on Embrace the Squiggle Colleen and Kristine speak with Lesli about her squiggly career that has taken her across the country and pivoted across many fields.
Lesli Ann Mie Agcaoili, a lifelong learner, retired from the automotive industry last year and is enrolled in trade school where she is working towards an esthetician license. She spent most of her career in product development in automotive, tech, fashion as a designer and engineer, and as an elementary school educator. She has traveled globally while working for iconic companies such as Tesla, Ford Motor Company and BlackBerry, w...
Duration: 00:55:46Why you should to take BIG risks in your career with Dr. Jess Menna
Apr 24, 2024Your career shouldn’t be a straight line journey from one point to another, risks are meant to be taken!
This week on Embrace the Squiggle, Colleen and Kristine speak with Jess Menna about her squiggly career and the lessons she’s learned along the way. They get into why taking risks should be a part of your career and how to know when the risk is worth taking.
Dr. Jess Menna has extensive experience spanning diverse industries, including client services, logistics, manufacturing, supply chain, software development, life sciences, and data exchange. Currently serving as the Se...
Duration: 00:41:41How to support your team members through mental illness with Josie White
Apr 17, 2024Maybe you have dealt with mental illness? Or you have a colleague that has? Either way, knowing how to best support them through it in the best way is critical to leadership and teamwork in your organization.
This week on Embrace the Squiggle Colleen and Kristine speak with Josie White for a truly courageous and authentic conversation about struggling with mental illness, hospitalization, and with re-entering the workforce. If you’ve ever taken a leave from work for your own illness, you may know how difficult that transition can be. And if you are working on a tea...
Duration: 00:44:31Working in the Military for Career Advancement with Jinny Lang
Apr 10, 2024Are you looking to change careers, but have no idea what you might want to do next? Design Your Next Squiggle is for you! Get more information on what to expect and sign up for our squiggly course here!
This week on Embrace the Squiggle Colleen and Kristine speak with Jinny Lang whose squiggly career has taken her from America’s Got Talent to Pearl Harbor! Jinny is an LA-based project manager with over 10 years of experience in media and entertainment. She is currently working in ad sales at NBCUniversal and very involved wi...
Duration: 00:46:23Balancing Motherhood and Marketing with Sive O’Neill
Apr 03, 2024Would you prioritize a four day work week in picking your next career move?
This week on Embrace the Squiggle Colleen and Kristine chat with Sive O’Neill, an expert career squiggler who has prioritized flexibility and family friendliness in her career moves. Sive is a Vice President of Marketing at Tulip where she not only leads the marketing team, but enjoys a four day work week.
Sive is a theater performer-turned marketer, with career squiggles that led her to some pretty cool jobs, like when she worked for the Vancouver Winter Olympics, a number of n...
Duration: 00:48:32From Pediatric Nurse to Professional Disney Expert with Leslie Lowry of Addicted to the Mouse
Mar 27, 2024Have you wanted to merge your passions with your career but aren't sure how to make the leap? This episode covers how Leslie leaped from her comfortable full-time job as a nurse into the business of Disney!
This week on Embrace the Squiggle Colleen and Kristine, speak with Leslie Lowry who you may know from her business and podcast, Addicted to the Mouse.
She started her career as a pediatric nurse and got her masters and became a nursing instructor. It was during this time that Leslie took her family to Walt Disney World in Or...
Duration: 00:39:51Leveraging your skills in a new industry with LaShea Davis-Williams
Mar 20, 2024What happens when you’re a part of a profession that ends early due to injury, age, or getting cut from a team? What do you do after it?
The case we are talking about this week on Embrace the Squiggle is what professional athletes do after they retire, but it can apply to anyone. Colleen and Kristine are talking with LaShea Davis all about her squiggly career that brought her to working at the NFL helping former professional athletes transition from playing to working in another role or profession.
LaShea Davis-Williams is an experienced Soci...
Duration: 00:39:52Your body is telling you to make a career shift with Social Impact Executive Christina Bryan
Mar 13, 2024Have you ever felt like your body is telling you to do something before your mind accepts it? Maybe you are getting sick and sleeping a lot? It may be time for a career squiggle.
This week on Embrace the Squiggle Colleen and Kristine talk to Christina Bryan about her squiggly career and how she has grown stronger with each shift. Christina has gone through three major career shifts, two failed businesses, and learned so much from each transition. She worked in event planning, real estate ventures, and coaching.
In 2015, Christina co-founded an innovative real e...
Duration: 00:46:03Allowing yourself space to play during your career with Norma-Jean Rocky
Mar 06, 2024Are you a strategic career decision maker who wants to always optimize and get to the next step on the ladder? Does that feel like a lot of pressure? Well it isn’t the only way.
This week on Embrace the Squiggle Colleen and Kristine speak with Norma-Jean Rocky who has led a very squiggly career. Norma Jean started her career in a somewhat controversial move by playing around with lots of different options. So often people, especially at the beginning of their career, think they must optimize every move and can’t spend a while trying diffe...
Duration: 00:55:12How to find grit and resilience after loss with Danielle Cobo
Feb 28, 2024Have you experienced some tumult and loss prior and struggled to get back to yourself? Our guest Danielle Cobo has and she has come guidance to share with you.
This week on Embrace the Squiggle Colleen and Kristine talk with Danielle Cobo about her squiggly career and how finding her grit has gotten her through it all. Danielle is a lifelong business woman who started her first business at just seven years old selling mistletoe for Christmas. More recently, she has been a leader in the medical sales field for 20 years and now she helps medical sales p...
Duration: 00:42:53The serial entrepreneur with Dawn Cordeiro
Feb 21, 2024Have you been bitten by the entrepreneur bug? Well our guest Dawn Cordeiro certainly has and she has plenty of advice for how to recover!
And by recover… we mean embrace it and see where it can take you!
This week on Embrace the Squiggle Colleen and Kristine speak to Dawn all about her journey as a serial entrepreneur. Dawn is a Publicity, Marketing, Social Media, and Crowdfunding Consultant for Small Businesses and Authors. She has been featured at local Facebook and Google summits for her successful branding and storytelling.
For the past ten...
Duration: 00:43:54How knowing your strengths can change your life with author and coach Charlotte Blair
Feb 14, 2024Have you ever felt stuck in your career and unsure of your purpose? Our guest this week Charlotte Blair was right there with you until she made a change.
This week on Embrace the Squiggle Colleen and Kristine talke with Charlotte Blair, coach and author.
Charlotte Blair is someone who believes in living each day to the fullest, aiming for a ten out of ten type of day, every day. Working towards what you want, and knowing that obstacles can be navigated around or pushed out of the way.
As an International Coaching Fe...
Duration: 00:44:02Pursuing your dreams no matter what other people think with Ali Grovue
Feb 07, 2024Did you ever not apply for a job or make a career leap because you were worried what other people would think? If so, this episode is all about making those big career squiggles no matter your fears of judgement.
This week on Embrace the Squiggle Colleen and Kristine talk with Ali Grovue to talk about pursuing your squiggly career no matter your personal fears of embarrassment or looking silly.
Ali is an expert in organizational behaviour and purpose-driven strategy, working with leaders across to drive performance and change through people. She draws on her de...
Duration: 00:40:57