Episodes
-
In this episode of Success by Design, we tackle “Climbing the Corporate Chimney” and share actionable career steps you can take during the holidays to advance your professional growth. Discover how to make the most of this festive season by leveraging unique opportunities, strengthening your network, and setting yourself up for success in the new year.
Join us as we reveal practical strategies to stay focused, overcome seasonal distractions, and take bold action toward your career goals. Whether you're eyeing a promotion, preparing for new challenges, or building your personal brand, this episode will help you navigate the holiday season with purpose and intention.
Tune in and learn how to turn the holidays into a springboard for climbing the corporate ladder—one step at a time.
-
In this episode of Success by Design, we explore the art of overcoming the fear of failure—a crucial step toward unlocking your true potential. Learn how to embrace setbacks, silence your inner critic, and transform fear into a powerful force for growth and resilience.
Join us as we reveal practical strategies to reframe failure, build unshakable confidence, and take bold action toward your goals. Whether you're stepping into a leadership role, launching a business, or simply striving for self-improvement, this episode will inspire you to face challenges head-on and turn every misstep into a stepping stone.
Tune in and discover how to break free from fear and start designing a fearless path to success—starting with your mindset.
-
Missing episodes?
-
In this episode of Success by Design, we dive deep into the secrets of building a winning mindset—the foundation of success in every aspect of life. Discover how to break free from self-doubt, cultivate resilience, and develop the mental toughness needed to thrive in the face of challenges.
Join us as we share actionable strategies to shift your perspective, stay motivated, and align your thoughts with your goals. Whether you're climbing the corporate ladder, running your own business, or striving for personal growth, this episode will equip you with the tools to think, act, and succeed like a winner.
Tune in and take the first step toward designing your success—starting with your mind.
-
Visit Executive Career Upgrades for valuable insights on leadership and career growth and level up your success journey!
In this episode of the Success by Design Podcast, Kristina Madden, co-founder and Chief People Officer at Executive Career Upgrades, ignites a powerful discussion on the crucial role of taking action. Kristina discusses why action is the only path to success, contrasting the inertia of overthinking with the dynamic momentum of proactive steps. Whether it's pursuing career goals, personal development, or overcoming the paralysis of perfectionism, Kristina shares personal anecdotes and practical advice to inspire listeners to move from planning to doing. Tune in to discover how even the smallest actions can lead to significant strides toward your goals.
MORE FROM KRISTINA:
Connect with Kristina on LinkedIn, Facebook, or Instagram
Subscribe to Success by Design on YouTube for more insights into achieving professional success through decisive action.
-
Visit Executive Career Upgrades for valuable insights on leadership and career growth and level up your success journey!
In today's episode of the Success by Design Podcast, host Tim Madden is joined by special guest Derek Smith, VP of Enrollment at Executive Career Upgrades, to discuss the pivotal ways politics could shape the job market in 2025. With insights from their firsthand experiences, they explore the evolving dynamics of job searching and networking strategies that are proving essential in a politically and economically fluctuating landscape. They also dive into the direct impact of policies on businesses and individuals alike. This episode unpacks the challenges and strategies for navigating the job market amidst potential political changes and economic shifts. Listen in to gain a deeper understanding of how to adapt and succeed in an uncertain future.
MORE FROM TIM:
Connect with Tim on LinkedIn, Facebook, or Instagram
Subscribe to Success By Design on YouTube to stay updated on effective career strategies and market insights.
-
Visit Executive Career Upgrades for valuable insights on leadership and career growth and level up your success journey!
What does it take to build unshakeable belief in yourself and achieve success beyond what you thought possible? In this motivating episode of the Success by Design Podcast, Tim Madden dives into the core theme of his upcoming book, Start Then Optimize. Drawing on 22 years in the U.S. Army and extensive executive coaching experience, Tim discusses the crucial role belief plays in accomplishing big goals—whether it’s landing your dream job, leading a high-performing team, or taking on new challenges. Through real-life examples, including insights from UFC legend Jon Jones, Tim shows how even the world’s top performers rely on a strong belief in themselves to achieve greatness.
Packed with actionable advice, this episode covers why most people quit when faced with resistance, how to silence self-doubt, and practical strategies for staying committed to your mission—even when no one else believes in it. Tim’s personal stories and expert tips reveal the transformative power of belief in shaping your career and life.
Tune in to discover how to harness the strength of belief to drive you toward success, and learn Tim's approach to cultivating resilience, defining your purpose, and achieving extraordinary results.
MORE FROM TIM:
Connect with Tim on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, or YouTube.
Subscribe to Success By Design on YouTube for more practical insights and inspirational stories to propel your career forward.
-
Visit Executive Career Upgrades for valuable insights on leadership and career growth and level up your success journey!
What does it take to move from planning to execution in your personal and professional life? In this energizing episode of the Success by Design Podcast, Tim Madden dives into the themes of his upcoming book, "Start then Optimize." Tim discusses the crucial step many overlook: beginning where you are and refining as you go. This episode is packed with actionable advice on overcoming procrastination by making public commitments, the transformative power of taking immediate action, and why perfect conditions are a myth in achieving success. Tim's personal anecdotes and the challenges he's faced underscore the episode's message: start now, refine later, and stop self-sabotage.
Tune in to learn how to kickstart your goals with the courage to imperfectly begin and the strategies to continuously optimize for success.
MORE FROM TIM:
Connect with Tim on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, or YouTube
Subscribe to Success By Design on YouTube for more practical insights and inspirational stories to propel your career forward.
-
Visit Executive Career Upgrades for valuable insights on leadership and career growth and level up your success journey!
---
What does it take to synchronize your career achievements with your personal life ambitions? In this thought-provoking episode, host Tim Madden explores the intricate balance between professional success and personal fulfillment. Discover how setting clear goals, understanding personal values, and maintaining motivation are crucial for harmonizing your career trajectory with your life’s purpose. Tim shares his unique strategies and personal anecdotes, emphasizing the importance of resilience and strategic planning in achieving a fulfilling career and life.
Tune in to learn how to craft a career that not only meets your professional ambitions but also enriches your personal life.
MORE FROM TIM:
Connect with Tim on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, or YouTube
Subscribe to Success By Design on YouTube
-
Visit Executive Career Upgrades for valuable insights on leadership and career growth and level up your success journey!
--
What does it take to pivot from the structured world of the military to the unpredictable realm of entrepreneurship? In this episode of the Success by Design Podcast, Tim Madden sits down with Corey France to delve into this very question. Discover how Corey's experiences as an Army Ranger have shaped his business strategies, the challenges he has overcome in his entrepreneurial journey, and the profound lessons he's learned about success along the way. Tune in to hear how a veteran approaches the trials and triumphs of business ownership!
MORE FROM TIM:
Connect with Tim on LinkedIn, Facebook, or Instagram
Subscribe to Success By Design on YouTube
-
Welcome to Success by Design, the podcast crafted for high achievers ready to take charge of their careers, elevate their businesses, and create lasting fulfillment in life. Hosted by Tim Madden, CEO of Executive Career Upgrades, this podcast delivers actionable strategies, expert interviews, and industry insights for meaningful growth.
Whether you’re aiming for a breakthrough in your current role, transitioning to a new industry, or growing your business, Success by Design is here to guide you toward your full potential. With over 22 years of military experience and a track record of scaling multiple businesses, Tim Madden brings insights from a career spanning leadership, entrepreneurship, and executive coaching.
Join us weekly to learn how you can define success on your terms—and achieve it. Hit subscribe to start your success journey today! 🎧
-
In this inaugural episode of the Success By Design podcast, host Tim Madden dives into the essential topic of defining and achieving success. As the co-founder of Executive Career Upgrades, Tim offers listeners a fresh perspective on how to integrate success into all facets of life, extending beyond mere professional achievements.
Episode Highlights:
Redefining Success: Tim challenges listeners to contemplate what success genuinely means, urging a shift from traditional metrics to a more personalized definition that includes personal values, passions, and life goals.Achieving Balance: Strategies for maintaining a healthy balance between professional responsibilities and personal life, ensuring that one’s career does not overshadow other vital aspects of life.Legacy and Impact: Discussion on the significance of building a lasting impact and considering the legacy one wishes to leave behind, which plays a crucial role in defining one’s overall success.Tim’s insights encourage a holistic view of success that encompasses both career accomplishments and personal satisfaction. He emphasizes the need for clarity, resilience, and intentional planning to navigate life's challenges effectively.
🔗 Visit execupgrades.com/podcast for more resources and to schedule a free career consultation.
-
In this transformative episode of The Executive Career Upgrades Podcast, Tim Madden explores the critical topic of overcoming self-sabotage. As co-founder of Executive Career Upgrades, he shares insightful strategies to help professionals navigate the complexities of self-imposed barriers that hinder career progress.
Episode Highlights:
Introduction to Self-Sabotage: Understanding the deep-seated behaviors that lead to self-sabotage and recognizing the common patterns that may be holding you back.Strategies to Overcome Self-Sabotage: Practical advice on managing time effectively, setting clear goals, changing internal dialogue, and maintaining accountability.Emphasis on Accountability: The importance of finding a support system or an accountability partner to keep you motivated and on track towards achieving your professional objectives.Tim passionately discusses his personal journey and the significant changes he has implemented to better align his actions with his career aspirations. Whether it's shedding unproductive habits or embracing a more disciplined approach to personal and professional life, this episode is packed with actionable insights.
Tune in to transform the way you approach challenges and learn to step confidently out of your own way to achieve success.
🔗 Visit execupgrades.com/podcast to schedule a free career consultation.
-
In this heartfelt and highly personal episode of The Executive Career Upgrades Podcast, host Tim Madden shares his recent experiences and strategies for rebounding after life's unexpected challenges. Amidst personal loss and natural disasters, Tim provides a raw look into the difficulties and triumphs of getting back on track.
Episode Highlights - Rebounding Strategies:
Accept the Situation: Acknowledge and reflect on what happened to understand and move forward.Reconnect with Your Purpose: Remind yourself of the 'why' behind your actions to reignite your motivation.Establish a Positive Routine: Create a supportive daily routine to maintain focus and productivity.Whether you're facing career hurdles or personal obstacles, this episode offers valuable insights and encouragement to push forward and reclaim your path to success.
🔗 For more insights and resources, visit execupgrades.com/podcast.
-
In this crucial episode of The Executive Career Upgrades Podcast, join Tim Madden as he discusses strategies to secure your professional future during economic downturns. With layoffs on the rise and inflation impacting businesses, it's more important than ever to be proactive about your career stability.
Episode Highlights:
- Understanding the Current Economic Climate: Gain insights into the impact of recent layoffs and high inflation on the job market, and why it’s essential to be prepared.
- Strategies for Recession-Proofing Your Career: Learn practical steps to safeguard your career, including maintaining updated career documents, leveraging your network effectively, and mastering your interview skills.
- Real Stories from the Job Front: Hear real-life accounts from individuals navigating the challenging job market, underscoring the urgency of having a solid career strategy.
- Networking and Visibility: Discover the power of networking and how to increase your visibility among decision-makers through strategic LinkedIn use and content creation.
Whether you're actively searching for a new role or just looking to strengthen your position, this episode offers actionable advice on navigating through tough economic times with confidence.
Tune in to fortify your career strategy and stay ahead of the competition.
🔗 For more insights and to access additional resources, visit execupgrades.com/podcast.
-
In this transformative episode of The Executive Career Upgrades Podcast, Tim and Kristina Madden unravel the complexities between assertiveness and aggression in the workplace. They explore how these behaviors impact your career trajectory and the perceptions of your colleagues and superiors.
Episode Highlights:
Understanding Aggression vs. Assertiveness: Discover the differences between being aggressive, which often involves forceful and dominating behavior, and being assertive, which is about confidently stating your needs and boundaries without infringing on others.Navigating Workplace Dynamics: Gain insights on how to effectively communicate and assert yourself in professional settings without crossing into aggression, ensuring that interactions remain productive and respectful.Real-Life Applications and Strategies: The co-hosts share personal stories and professional scenarios that illustrate the consequences and benefits of both behaviors, providing listeners with real-world applications of the discussed concepts.Whether you're looking to enhance your leadership skills, improve your workplace interactions, or simply understand the impact of your behavior on your professional environment, this episode offers valuable strategies and thought-provoking discussions.
Tune in to refine your approach to workplace communication and leadership, ensuring you strike the right balance between being heard and maintaining respect.
🔗 For more insights and resources, visit execupgrades.com/podcast.
-
In this thought-provoking episode of The Executive Career Upgrades Podcast, your host Tim Madden explores a crucial question for every ambitious professional: Is your current job the right vehicle for your future success?
Episode Highlights:
Identify the Right Career Vehicle: Learn how to assess whether your current or prospective job aligns with your long-term career goals and personal values.Career Goals Alignment: Discover techniques for ensuring your role is in sync with your career aspirations and offers opportunities for growth.Work-Life Balance Considerations: Reflect on the importance of work-life balance and how to find a job that supports your desired lifestyle.Values and Culture Fit: Evaluate whether your company’s culture and values resonate with your own, a critical factor for sustained job satisfaction.Feedback and Recognition: Understand the significance of receiving constructive feedback and recognition, and how it impacts your professional development.Tim also shares personal insights and actionable advice to help you determine if your job is merely a stopgap or a true catalyst for your career ambitions. Whether you’re contemplating a job change or aiming to reassess your current position, this episode offers invaluable guidance on navigating your professional path with intention.
Listen and Reflect: Is your job pushing you towards your goals, or is it time to steer towards new opportunities? Tune in for an in-depth examination of making strategic career choices.
🔗 For more insights and resources, visit execupgrades.com/podcast.
-
Dive into another empowering episode of The Executive Career Upgrades Podcast with Tim and Kristina Madden! This week's focus is on overcoming self-doubt—a common barrier for many professionals, but especially challenging for those in leadership roles or embarking on new opportunities.
Episode Highlights:
Understanding Self-Doubt: Explore why self-doubt persists and how it affects your professional and personal growth.Strategies to Overcome Self-Doubt: Gain insights into practical techniques to manage and mitigate self-doubt, ensuring it doesn't hinder your career progression.Actionable Advice: Learn how to channel self-doubt into positive outcomes and how to leverage this emotion to push you forward rather than hold you back.Community and Support: Discover the importance of surrounding yourself with a supportive community that challenges and pushes you to exceed your own expectations.Inspiration for Action: Be motivated by stories and strategies that illustrate the power of overcoming fear and taking decisive action towards your goals.This episode is packed with motivational insights and practical advice aimed at helping you turn self-doubt into a stepping stone rather than a stumbling block.
🔗 Tune in now to start transforming your approach to challenges and to redefine your path to success. Don’t let doubt control your career trajectory any longer!
For more resources and to book a free career consultation, visit execupgrades.com/podcast.
-
Did you miss our latest LIVE episode on The Executive Career Upgrades Podcast? Dive into a crucial topic with Tim Madden, as he provides expert guidance on mastering one of the most common yet pivotal interview questions: "Tell me about yourself."
Highlights from this episode include:
Understanding the Question: Learn why interviewers ask this question and what they're really looking for in your response.Structured Responses: Discover how to craft a concise and compelling answer that showcases your qualifications and aligns with the job role.Common Mistakes: Tim discusses the typical pitfalls candidates encounter, such as being too personal or lacking structure, and how to avoid them.Delivering with Confidence: Gain tips on how to deliver your answer with confidence, ensuring you make a strong first impression.Practice Makes Perfect: Emphasize the importance of practice to refine your delivery and ensure you communicate your value effectively.This episode is packed with actionable advice to help you articulate your experience and skills confidently, turning this common query into a standout moment in your interviews.
🔗 Tune in to the replay for expert strategies that can elevate your interview skills and help you articulate your value proposition effectively.
Interested in more insider tips for advancing your career? Visit execupgrades.com/podcast to schedule a free career consultation and unlock your potential in the competitive job market.
-
Missed the live session? Catch the replay of this enlightening episode from our podcast, where hosts Tim and Kristina Madden explore the essentials of mastering your appearance on video calls—a crucial skill in today's remote work environment.
Highlights from this episode include:
Tech Setup: Ensure your video and audio equipment work flawlessly to avoid technical glitches that can undermine your professionalism.Professional Environment: Learn the importance of a suitable backdrop and good lighting to create a professional visual impression.Appropriate Attire: Discussion on what to wear to convey professionalism and confidence without needing to be physically present.Engagement Techniques: Tips on maintaining eye contact, proper body language, and managing your screen presence effectively to engage your audience.Handling Interruptions: Strategies for minimizing disruptions and maintaining your composure, ensuring a smooth and professional call experience.This episode is packed with actionable advice to enhance your video call presence, whether for interviews, meetings, or everyday professional interactions.
🔗 Tune in to the replay to transform how you present yourself digitally and boost your remote communication effectiveness.
Looking to elevate your on-camera presence and professional image? Visit execupgrades.com/podcast to schedule a free career consultation and gain expert guidance tailored to your career needs.
-
If you missed the live broadcast, don't worry! You can now access the replay of our impactful episode. Join host Tim Madden as he dives into essential strategies to calm your nerves and boost your confidence for job interviews.
In this episode, Tim shares practical advice on preparing effectively to reduce nervousness. Here are some highlights:
1 - Visualization Techniques: Learn about using guided meditation to calm your mind before interviews, as recommended by professionals like Vishen Lakhiani of Mindvalley.
2 - Preparation is Key: Discover why thorough preparation is the ultimate tool to alleviate anxiety. Tim emphasizes the importance of knowing the company and rehearsing your responses.
3 - Mock Interviews: Gain insight into the benefits of mock interviews to practice your skills and refine your approach.
4 - Visualize Success: Understand the power of positive visualization to enhance performance and ensure you go into your interview with a winning mindset.
5 - Embrace Nervousness: Acknowledge that feeling nervous is normal, and learn how accepting this can help reduce the impact of nerves on your performance.
Tim discusses these strategies and more, ensuring you can enter any interview with confidence and poise. Whether you're an experienced executive or stepping into the job market, this episode is packed with actionable tips to help you excel.
🔗 Tune into the replay for a session that could transform your interview skills and boost your career prospects.
If you're looking to make yourself irresistible to hiring managers and secure a place at the top of the candidate list, visit execupgrades.com/podcast and schedule a free career consultation with us.
- Show more
