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As we wrap up 2024, I want to take a moment to say thank you for listening to the Destination Dream Job podcast this past year.
I’m so honored to be a part of your journey, whether you’re a business owner, a job seeker, or someone navigating today’s challenging job market.
Here are the top 3 most downloaded episodes of 2024 (links below):
1️⃣ Episode 54 – Mastering the Job Market: Networking, Headhunters, and Finding the Right Fit with Martina Sarro.
A fantastic conversation about elevating your job search through networking and headhunter insights.
2️⃣ Episode 51 – Tips from a Recruiter: What Makes Your Resume Stand Out with Chris Kapusta.
Packed with actionable advice straight from a recruiter to help you improve your resume.
3️⃣ Episode 42 – Transform Your Job Search with Ana Colak Fustin.
An inspiring session on sharpening your job search strategies.
In 2025, I want to continue to bring impactful discussion and create content to keep you updated on career trends.
I want to hear from you! What topics do you want to see covered?
Comment below or send me a DM with ideas and suggestions!
Episode 54: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/destination-dream-job/id1690369609?i=1000672341205
Episode 51: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/destination-dream-job/id1690369609?i=1000669930501
Episode 42: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/destination-dream-job/id1690369609?i=1000655667451
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🎙 Looking for a job is like dating—you can’t expect someone to love you if you don’t love yourself.
I recently sat down with Ramon Santillan, founder of PersuasiveInterview.com, on the Destination Dream Job podcast. We discussed job market trends, career growth strategies, and how to stand out in a competitive market.
💡 Here are my top 3 takeaways from our conversation:
1️⃣ Job search = self-love + clarity: Before jumping into applications, reflect on your goals. A clear vision makes all the difference.
2️⃣ Prepping for 2025: In order to prep for 2025 start by identifying your career goals, assessing your unique skills and values, and start looking for opportunities that align.
3️⃣ Negotiation is Key: You don’t get what you deserve; you get what you negotiate.
Ramon’s advice is timeless: Be prepared, know your worth, and always stay authentic.
Which of these takeaways resonates with you the most?
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Change can be daunting—even when it's positive.
In this week's podcast episode, Tony Martignetti, MBA, PCC and I dive deep into how to navigate uncertainty, embrace transitions, and leverage your unique journey to find clarity and purpose in your career.
Here’s a sneak peek of what we covered:
1️⃣ Change is part of life
Learn how to roll with it instead of fighting it.
2️⃣ Embrace your past experience
Your experiences are part of your journey, embrace them. Your non-linear path is a strength, not a weakness.
3️⃣ Expand your vision, narrow your focus
Explore possibilities through meaningful conversations, then channel your energy into a clear, intentional direction.
Change is challenging, but it’s also a powerful catalyst for growth.
Ready to reframe how you approach transitions and turn uncertainty into opportunity?
🎙️ Check out the full episode here to learn actionable strategies and inspiring perspectives! 🌟
Connect with Tony:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonymartignett1/
Connect with Steph:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephgillies/
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Have you considered starting a business?
That is what we talk about this week on the Destination: Dream Job Podcast.
Orlando Haynes shares all about how to balance your 9-5 job with a 5-9 side hustle.
This was an interesting topic for me because I jumped into business full-time.
Here are 3 tips if you have been thinking of starting that side hustle:
> Decide on your business direction.
Picking a business is all about balancing your strengths, your knowledge and your passions.
> Have open communication with your loved ones
Communicating your vision, setting a schedule, and being present when it’s family time can help get your loved ones on board with your dreams.
> Should I start a side hustle or go full-time?
A side hustle can be a stepping stone. Rather than diving in, test the waters, build a client base, and create a safety net.
Learn so much more by listening to the full episode wherever you get your podcasts.
Now on YouTube!
💡 What tips do you have for balancing a side hustle?
Connect with Orlando:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/orlandohaynes/
Website: https://careertalkspodcast.com
Connect with Steph:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephgillies/
Website: https://www.destinationdreamjob.com/
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I truly believe being a generalist is a superpower.
In this week’s podcast episode, Maya & I chat about what it’s like to be a generalist and how it became her superpower.
Check out these great tips for generalists Maya shared during the episode:
> Embrace variety instead of running from it.
Having multiple interests is a strength. It keeps you adaptable and brings a unique perspective to problem-solving.
> Redefine what success looks like for you.
Success doesn’t mean mastering one thing. It’s about creating a versatile toolkit from a breadth of experiences.
> Don’t forget to pass on what you learn.
It’s up to us to show the next generation that curiosity and exploration can be their greatest asset, without the pressure to “stick to one thing.”
Check out the full episode on the Destination Dream Job Podcast.
Connect with Maya:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mayameyouhas/
Connect with Steph:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephgillies/
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When doing salary negotiation, who is more important – you or the person you are asking this question to?
That was the most impactful question I was asked in my latest podcast episode with Jamila Brown.
Jamila shares how in salary negotiations we tend to be worried about making the other person uncomfortable.
What if we flip the script and realize our family and our career goals are more important than the uncomfortable feeling of having a tough conversation?
When we truly know our goals and how we make an impact at work, we can confidently ask for what we want.
Tune into the episode for more practical steps to understand your worth and confidently negotiate your salary!
*Is there a podcast episode you wish I would do? Send me a dm with your ideas.
Key Themes:
Integration of Passions and Work: Discuss the common belief that personal and professional lives can be separate, and why that mindset can be detrimental. Highlight the importance of aligning passions with work for overall happiness.
Career Pivots: Explore the essential steps individuals should consider when contemplating a career change, emphasizing the need for self-reflection and accountability for past experiences.
Self-Discovery: Discuss the importance of understanding one's internal beliefs and values before making a career pivot. Introduce a framework of reflective questions to guide listeners in self-exploration.
Salary Negotiation Insights: Share a powerful client transformation story that underscores the significance of recognizing one’s worth and asking for what they deserve in salary negotiations.
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Have you ever wondered how to be successful and do work you actually want to do?
This weeks episode of the Destination Dream Job podcast features Jeff Baker who does just that.
He encourages his clients to truly dive deep, identify what makes them unique, what strengths they have and align that in their career.
Here are some tips to get started:
> Build a visual model of your talents and strengths.
> Create your ideal work environment.
> Find real opportunities that match your career design.
> Build a support system to help you through challenging times.
To learn more about each step – check out the podcast episode for more details!
Connect with Jeff:
https://www.positivefutures.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/positivefutures
Connect with Steph:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephgillies/
https://www.destinationdreamjob.com/toolkit
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Do you consider yourself a generalist? If so – this podcast episode is for you!
Julie Lavergne is a generalist expert, and every time we chat, I feel inspired!
I know you will feel that way too.
Here are my favourite points:
> Generalists are skilled at connecting the dots and solving problems.
> Break the stigma around career changes and embrace the journey of trying new things.
> Generalists benefit organizations by breaking down silos that foster cross-functional collaboration.
> Emphasizing the full phrase: “Jack of all trades, master of none, but better than master of one.”
Catch this and more on this weeks episode of Destination: Dream Job.
Connect with Julie:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-lavergne/
Connect with Steph:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephgillies/
Get your Job Search Strategy Toolkit:
https://www.destinationdreamjob.com/toolkit
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“If they ask for cheesecake—don’t give them meatloaf.”
Great words from my podcast guest, Kyle Elliott.
When you are creating a personal brand – you want to give the hiring manager what they are looking for.
Show them you have the specialist knowledge they want with the added bonus of your transferrable skills.
We also talked about:
🌟 Understanding your Fabulousness and what sets you apart
🌟 Building authenticity into your personal brand
🤝 Why encouragement partners are better than accountability partners.
💡 How to handle burnout.
Check out the episode to learn more about discovering your fabulousness in your job search journey!
Connect with Kyle:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylecromerelliott
Free Job Search Launch Guide: https://caffeinatedkyle.com/job-search-launch-guide/
Connect with Steph:
Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/stephgillies
Website: www.destinationdreamjob.com
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Have you met a recruiter who prioritizes cultural alignment over qualifications?
In this week’s episode, I was honored to interview Martina Sarro - who does just that!
Her unique approach to prioritizing cultural alignment with candidates has resulted in many successful placements!
In this episode, she shares:
> Building authentic connections that last
> Why transferrable skills matter and how to leverage your non-linear career path
> Understanding the impact of culture on job fit
> Tapping into the hidden job market through effective networking
And much more.
Check out this week’s episode of Destination Dream Job which is packed with tips for job seekers, straight from a headhunter.
Connect with Martina:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/martina-sarro/
Connect with Steph:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephgillies/
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Does negotiating your salary sound awkward and intimidating?
I hear you.
In this weeks podcast episode, Keri-Lynne Shaw shares all about salary negotiation.
Salary negotiation is about more than just the money.
She shares a story of an individual who received a 40% salary increase but not in the conventional way. Here is how he did it:
✨ He co-created a bonus program based on his deliverables that they rolled out to the whole organization.
✨ He negotiated a company car, gas and insurance.
✨ The company agreed to pay $4k/month for his family’s healthcare.
✨ He received 15 more days of PTO
Wow, what an accomplishment story.
These stories are more than just numbers and tactics—they're about the courage it takes to know your worth and ask for it. 💪
If you are ready to learn all the ins and outs of salary negotiation, don’t miss this week’s episode: How to Negotiate your Salary with Keri-Lynne Shaw on the Destination: Dream Job podcast.
You don’t want to miss this one! 🗣️
Connect with Keri-Lynne
IG & TikTok: @thesalarybump
LI:www.linkedin.com/in/keri-lynne-shaw
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Have you ever wondered how you end up in similar career situations over and over again?
Did you know our trauma and past experiences can create these patterns that influence our career?
This week’s podcast episode, Overcoming Trauma Patterns & Building Personal Resilience in your Career with Patricia Ortega is a must listen.
We talk about how when we recognize our behaviour patterns, we can start to address the issues that hold us back.
Patricia shares her own story of how her trauma effected her job search and the time she cried in an interview.
We all have past experiences that impact our career – the key is taking the next steps to build that resilience and start our healing.
This episode is a great first step.
Connect with Patricia:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/pmortega/https://www.theuncommoncareer.com/podcasthttps://www.theuncommoncareer.com/welcome
Connect with Steph:
Website: www.destinationdreamjob.com
Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/stephgillies
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“Why isn’t that recruiter getting back to me?”
Have you found yourself asking that question? If so – this weeks podcast episode is for you!
I chat with Chris Kapusta, an experienced Headhunter and Recruiter.
We talk about the difference between a Headhunter and Recruiter and what their role is in the job search process.
We also dive into personal branding tips directly from a recruiters.
Take a listen and let me know your favourite part below!
Connect with Chris:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-kapusta/
Connect with Steph:
Website: www.destinationdreamjob.com
Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/stephgillies
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Have you ever truly wondered what DEI means?
Today's conversation with Kathleen Johnson is not only timely but also extremely insightful.
We talk all things Diversity, Equity and Inclusion from what it means to implementing a DEI program in your workplace.
Kathleen shares how DEI initiatives matter at work and how it impacts innovation, employee engagement and overall organizational success.
She also offers practical strategies how organizations and individuals can integrate DEI principles into daily practices.
If DEI has been something that has interested you, take a listen.
Connect with Kathleen:
Book: Thinking Outside the BoardroomNew YouTube: The KreactivatorsSpotify: The KreactivatorsTikTok: @kreativkmjIG: @the_kreactivatorLinkedIn: Kathleen Johnson
Connect with Steph:
Website: www.destinationdreamjob.com
Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/stephgillies
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Quitting is for winners!
In this podcast episode, Gabriela Flax, a career wellness coach, dives deep into burnout and why quitting can be a smart move for your well-being and success.
Here are 3 steps to helping you get through burnout:
> Embrace Vulnerability
Recognizing burnout is the first step to moving forward.
> Shift your Mindset
Burnout can be one of our greatest lessons and can help us truly align our careers with our passions and values.
> Know when to quit
When done thoughtfully, quitting can open up new opportunities, allow for personal growth and help you re-align with your true goals.
Tune in to Destination Dream Job and hear all of Gabriela’s powerful insights on how to navigate career burnout.
Connect with Gabriela:
IG: @gabrielaflaxLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gabriela-flax-the-career-wellness-coach
Connect with Steph
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/stephgillies
Website: www.destinationdreamjob.com
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Have you ever thought of starting a business?
If so - this episode is for you!
In this episode, I welcome Erin Patchell a seasoned business strategist, podcast host, and founder of Positivist Group and Train to Help Project.
We talk about:
> How to identify if entrepreneurship is right for you.
> The key differences between being a solopreneur, business owner and entrepreneur.
> Practical advice for starting and building a successful business.
Whether you are contemplating a side hustle or want to be full-time in your own business, Erin’s experiences and advice will inspire and guide you through your entrepreneurial journey.
Tune into the full episode to hear all her great advice!
Connect with Erin:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/erin-patchell
Website: positivist.ca & trainedtohelp.com
Connect with Steph: &
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/stephgillies
Website: www.destinationdreamjob.com
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Have you ever wondered how to overcome shyness and stand out?
In this weeks podcast episode, Michael Thompson shares his own story of how he overcame stuttering and is now a lecturer, career coach and author.
He wrote the book Shy by Design: 12 Timeless Principles to Quietly Stand out.
We discussed practical tips that introverts and shy individuals can leverage to thrive in their careers.
Here are my top 3 takeaways:
► Focus on comfort over confidence
► Embrace small wins
► Express yourself in your own way
If you want to hear more tips from Michael, check out the episode. It’s a good one!
Connect with Michael:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikethompsonblog/
Website: https://michaelthompson.art/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelthompsonwriter/
Connect with Steph:
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/stephgillies
Website: www.destinationdreamjob.com
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Replace “What do I want to do with my life?” with “What kind of life do I want to live?”
In this weeks episode of Destination: Dream Job, we welcome Tara Patton, the President and Founder of Red Blaze Solutions. Tara shares her unique career journey from an English Literature graduate to an engineer, and now a successful coach. Tara provides valuable insights on improving mental health during job searches, building resilience, and understanding your true desires to create a fulfilling life and career.
Here are her top 3 tips for improving your life while navigating the job search:
Journaling for Self-Discovery and Mental Clarity:Utilize tools like habit trackers and morning pages to understand your energy cycles, identify what activities boost your mood, and clarify your desires.Building a Supportive Community:Engage in networking events, connect with friends and family, and seek support from those who understand your experience.Resilience and Positive Mindset:Focus on small wins and create a wins journal to train your brain to recognize positive outcomes and build confidence.Join us for an enlightening discussion that will inspire you to reflect on your life goals and take actionable steps toward a fulfilling career and personal life.
Connect with Tara:
Website: https://redblazesolutions.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taralpaton/
Connect with Steph:
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/stephgillies
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What does it look like to have a sustainable work-life balance as a neurodivergent professionals?
On this week’s episode of the Destination: Dream Job podcast, I had a great conversation with Veronica Yao, a career coach specializing in supporting neurodivergent professionals to build sustainable work lives and break the burnout cycle.
Here are my top 2 takeaways:
> How Burnout effects Neurodivergent professionals
Veronica shares how neurodivergent individuals face higher risk of burnout due to structures that are not designed for their unique needs.
> Asking for Accommodations and Why it Should be Normalized
We talk about the importance of normalizing accommodations and how to reduce the stigma around asking for what you need at work.
This is a great episode if you are looking for ways to avoid burnout and improve your work life!
Connect with Veronica:
Social Media: @atypicalcareers
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/LBT97J6FYcnBVfdj/?mibextid=K35XfP
Connect with Steph:
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/stephgillies
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In this week’s podcast episode, I’m joined by Vera Ilnyckyj, a coach who helps midlife women turn the challenges of divorce and job loss into opportunities for growth.
We talked all things career clarity, confidence building and mental health in challenging seasons of life.
Here are 2 gems Vera shared:
> Build your Confidence
Write down and review your accomplishments regularly, no matter how small, to remind yourself of your value.
> Prioritize your Mental Heath
Process your emotions and regulate your nervous system after a major life change to approach your job search with a clear, calm mind.
To listen to the full episode, check out Empower Your Life on Destination: Dream Job.
Connect with Vera:
Website: www.createyourbestchapter.ca
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/verailnyckyj
Connect with Steph:
Website: https://www.destinationdreamjob.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephgillies/
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