Episódios

  • What makes a leader truly unforgettable—the kind who energizes you, makes you want to get up in the morning, and has a real impact, not just on you, but on everyone around you? In this episode of Career Can Do, Mary Ann Faremouth and Megan Billnoske dig into the heart of what it takes to lead with purpose, compassion, and authenticity.
    Megan is the founder of Inspire and the current president of the National Speakers Association (NSA) Houston. With over a decade of experience across different industries and continents, Megan talks about her journey from corporate life to becoming a voice for impactful leadership. She discusses the importance of authenticity and compassion in leadership, emphasizing that today’s leaders must be dynamic and inclusive. With the rise of virtual and hybrid work, she explains how understanding the unique needs of each team member can foster stronger connections and drive success. Megan also touches on how NSA Houston has embraced hybrid events, providing new opportunities for leaders to connect, share knowledge, and grow together in a changing world.

    Resources
    Megan Billnoske on Web I LinkedIn I Email - [email protected]
    Mary Ann Faremouth on Web I X (Twitter)
    Referenced: Emotional Intelligence by Daniel Goleman, Dare to Lead by Brene Brown

  • In this episode of Career Can Do, Mary Ann Faremouth and mindset coach, Linda Perry, dive into the unique strengths and challenges of Gen Z as they enter today’s workforce. Linda, a former attorney turned coach, highlights how Gen Z’s emotional intelligence and adaptability set them apart. However, they face new challenges: shaped by a digital-first world and impacted by remote work, many Gen Z workers lack the in-person mentorship older generations had, often leading to a disconnect in communication and expectations.

    Linda emphasizes the importance of leaders bridging this gap by understanding each team member’s motivations and strengths. She encourages leaders to mentor younger employees in finding purpose and confidence, making the workplace more inclusive of Gen Z’s fresh perspectives on balance and well-being. Her approach shows how, by better understanding both ourselves and our teams, leaders can foster a workplace that thrives across generations.

    Resources:
    Linda Perry on the Web I LinkedIn
    Mary Ann Faremouth on the Web I X (Twitter)

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  • What does it take to build trust in an organization where change is constant? In this episode of Career Can Do, Mary Ann Faremouth discusses this with Benedikt Oehmen, who shares a fresh perspective on leadership dynamics in fast-moving environments. Benedikt speaks candidly about the importance of transparency and integrity, emphasizing, "Trust isn’t something you ask for; it’s something you earn, consistently."

    Benedikt also goes into the concept of vulnerability in leadership, which he believes is often misunderstood. He says, "Being vulnerable isn’t about exposing weaknesses; it’s about showing your team that you’re human, too." This vulnerability, combined with a clear vision, is what helps leaders connect with their teams on a deeper level, encouraging innovation and resilience in times of uncertainty. He argues that when leaders embrace this mindset, they not only build stronger relationships but also create an environment where people feel safe to take risks and grow.

    We explore his journey of cultivating trust through open communication and a shared sense of purpose. He reflects on the challenges leaders face in balancing short-term demands with long-term vision, offering insights on how to create a culture where people feel empowered to speak up. Benedikt explains how fostering a culture of accountability and clarity can transform not only teams but entire organizations.

    Resources:
    Benedikt Oehmen on LinkedIn I Art of Meaningful Change Website
    Faremouth.com

  • What if the future of hiring focused more on real-world impact than a college degree? In this episode of Career Can Do, Mary Ann Faremouth chats with Dr. Donald McNeeley, Executive Chairman of Chicago Tube and Iron and a professor at Northwestern University, about how hiring practices are evolving and what it means for both employers and candidates.

    Dr. McNeeley makes a thought-provoking point: someone without a degree could hit the ground running and make a significant impact from day one, while a degree-holder might take years to deliver real results. He argues that when it comes to hiring, experience and practical skills should take center stage, especially in fields like sales where immediate contribution matters.
    He encourages employers to keep an open mind when it comes to qualifications. Sure, some positions need specific certifications, but many don’t. By focusing on what candidates can actually do rather than rigid requirements, companies can attract top talent. As Dr. McNeeley quotes Richard Branson, "Train people well enough so they can leave. Treat them well enough so they don’t want to."

    Dr. McNeeley also questions the effectiveness of standardized tests in college admissions, highlighting their cultural biases and lack of real-world predictive power. For him, emotional intelligence (EQ) should be prioritized over intellectual ability (IQ). “Empathy isn't just a nice-to-have in leadership,” he notes. “It’s essential for collaboration and innovation.”
    So, what’s the takeaway for job seekers and employers? For candidates, staying humble, seeing your career as a marathon, and finding mentors is key. For employers, creating a fun and engaging work environment boosts morale and retention—sometimes simple social events can make all the difference.

    Resources:
    Faremouth.com

  • Have you ever wondered why some people seem to effortlessly climb the career ladder while others, equally skilled, struggle to advance? The answer often lies in a crucial, yet sometimes overlooked, element: strategic networking.

    This episode is a special feature, originally published on the Price of Business show, where Kevin Price hosted Mary Ann Faremouth. They dive deep into the art of strategic networking, emphasizing that it’s not merely about attending events, collecting business cards, or adding connections on LinkedIn. Instead, it’s about cultivating genuine, meaningful relationships that can open doors to new opportunities.

    Kevin Price highlights the significance of engaging with platforms that align with your professional aspirations. He discusses how contributing to industry-relevant media, participating in podcasts, or attending niche events not only showcases your expertise but also connects you with like-minded professionals who share your goals. These interactions can propel you into new realms of visibility and influence, creating opportunities that might not be accessible otherwise.

    But strategic networking goes beyond just seeking out connections—it’s about providing value to others as well. Whether it’s sharing insights, offering support, or collaborating on projects, the most successful networkers approach relationships with a mindset of mutual benefit. This reciprocity builds trust and establishes a solid foundation for long-term, fruitful connections.
    Networking isn’t just about what others can do for you—it’s also about how you can help them succeed. By being genuinely interested in others' success and offering your own expertise, you create a network that is not just a tool for advancement but a community that supports and elevates each other.

    As Pablo Picasso wisely said, "The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away." In your career, this translates to sharing your knowledge, experiences, and insights with your network, not just to benefit yourself but to help others thrive as well. In doing so, your network becomes one of the most powerful assets in your career, opening doors to opportunities you never imagined possible.

    Resources:
    Price of Business
    Kevin Price on LinkedIn
    Faremouth

  • Have you ever thought about how competitors can also be your biggest allies? In a world driven by competition, the National Association of Steel Pipe Distributors (NASPD) does things differently. According to President Jerry Brookshire, the NASPD isn’t just a professional group—it’s a close-knit community built on trust and long-term relationships.Jerry emphasizes that, despite being a nationwide industry, the steel pipe world feels small because of the shared commitment to ethical practices and mutual support among its members. “We all compete, but we also help each other,” he says.Networking in the NASPD transcends the traditional exchange of business cards; it’s about forging genuine connections with people who share your values and standards. This approach fosters a unique environment where collaboration thrives alongside competition, benefiting everyone involved.Membership in NASPD is selective, ensuring that each distributor, service provider, or industry partner upholds the highest ethical standards. This selective nature contributes to the value of being part of NASPD, as it’s not merely about competing for market share but about advancing the industry together through shared insights and support. The association’s conferences are a prime example of this philosophy in action. These events not only offer opportunities for networking and education but also serve as platforms for members to engage in meaningful conversations about industry trends and challenges.Beyond the business side, these gatherings nurture personal connections that fortify the community and create a collaborative spirit. For those intrigued by the prospect, attending as a guest before committing to membership allows for a firsthand experience of the NASPD’s unique environment.Some of the upcoming Events:Kansas City Conference: September 18th - 22nd50th Anniversary in San Antonio: February 19th - 22nd 2025Vancouver & Charleston in Summer and Fall of 2025!For businesses dedicated to long-term success, joining NASPD represents more than just a membership; it’s an investment in both your business and the broader industry, creating a foundation for sustained growth and partnership.Resources:Faremouth.comJerry Brookshire on LinkedInNASPD website

  • What if the secret to unlocking your team's potential lies in how you onboard and align them with your company's culture? In this special episode of Career Can Do, host Mary Ann Faremouth takes a unique turn by sharing her recent guest appearance on Russel Treat's podcast - Pipeline Technology Podcast. Mary Ann reveals how a strategic approach to onboarding and understanding employee motivations can significantly enhance both recruitment success and retention.

    Mary Ann highlights the importance of personalized onboarding. While basic training is essential, the real difference comes from tailoring the process to each individual’s needs and goals. A hiring manager’s role extends beyond just integrating a new hire; it involves ensuring they remain engaged, productive, and aligned with the company's objectives.
    She shares an illustrative interview scenario: one candidate’s technical achievements and another’s story of helping a child join a baseball team. For a sales role, the latter’s empathy and team spirit were seen as more valuable, showing that personal traits can outweigh technical skills in certain contexts.

    Mary Ann advocates for setting clear 90-day and 180-day objectives for new hires. This approach allows companies to evaluate a new employee’s impact and adjust goals as needed, fostering flexibility and responsiveness to their contributions.

    The conversation also touches on the significance of aligning employee goals with personal values. Mary Ann advises hiring managers to understand what drives each employee and ensure their roles reflect these motivations. This alignment can boost job satisfaction and retention.

    Finally, Mary Ann emphasizes the critical role of cultural fit. Fitting into a company's culture can be even more crucial than compensation, impacting overall job satisfaction and long-term success. Addressing cultural mismatches early can prevent dissatisfaction and help both the employee and the organization thrive.

    Tune in to discover how refining your onboarding process and understanding cultural fit can transform your hiring practices and drive team success.

    Resources:
    Meet Russel Treat
    Original podcast link
    Faremouth

  • Is compliance solely about adhering to legal standards, or does it also play a role in driving business efficiency? This question is central to the latest episode of the Career Can Do podcast, where host Mary Ann Faremouth engages with Tom Fox, the innovative founder of the Compliance Podcast Network. Their conversation explores the evolving world of compliance programs and the transformative impact of podcasting.

    Tom Fox, a leading authority in anti-corruption and anti-bribery compliance, shares his valuable insights into why businesses must continuously update their compliance strategies. The shift to remote work, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, exposes the inadequacies of compliance programs that were designed a decade ago. Tom emphasizes that today’s fast-changing risk environment requires a proactive and adaptive approach to compliance.

    A major focus of their discussion is the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA), a crucial tool in combating global bribery and corruption. Tom underscores the importance of strong compliance frameworks, especially in high-risk sectors like energy, where effective risk management is essential.

    Tom’s personal journey is equally inspiring. After a severe bike accident, he transforms this challenge into an opportunity for growth, using his resilience to build a successful global practice from his home. His story illustrates how adversity can become a powerful catalyst for professional success.

    Podcasting also plays a significant role in Tom’s career, providing a platform to enhance his brand and open new business opportunities. Both Tom and Mary Ann champion the power of podcasting, highlighting its potential to establish thought leadership, build professional brands, and create meaningful connections within the industry. They encourage professionals and businesses to use podcasting as a strategic tool for career and business growth.

    For those interested in tapping into Tom’s expertise or exploring podcasting for their own ventures, he offers multiple ways to connect, including email, LinkedIn, and his website. This episode of Career Can Do is essential listening for anyone looking to navigate the complexities of compliance and leverage the transformative power of podcasting.

    Resources:
    Faremouth

  • Have you ever wondered how a career in sales can lead to incredible opportunities and global experiences? On this episode of Career Can Do, Mary Ann Faremouth welcomes Jim Watkins from Gulf Energy Information to dive into the world of sales and media. With over 25 years of experience in the global energy industry, Jim shares insights on how a curious mindset, dedication to client success, and embracing digital tools can propel your career to new heights. Jim's journey from advertising sales in Europe to becoming a media professional in the energy industry was shaped by building strong relationships, adapting to the digital landscape, and leveraging the power of podcasts. Listen in as Jim and Mary Ann discuss how focusing on client needs, maintaining genuine connections, and embracing new technologies can not only enhance your career but also open doors to endless possibilities.

    Building strong relationships with clients is crucial in sales and can significantly contribute to career success. Maintaining a client-centric approach, even under pressure, can lead to a growing reputation, increased responsibility, and a higher likelihood of attracting more business opportunities.

    The significance of prioritizing client needs and fostering strong relationships starts with this mindset: look out for your clients and do what's right for them, and the rest will fall in line. This approach not only builds trust but also enhances credibility and reliability, essential elements in achieving success in sales.

    In today's digital landscape, where sales methodologies and communication channels have evolved, the fundamental principle of building strong client relationships remains timeless. While leveraging digital tools like AI, databases, and webcasts can enhance sales efficiency and effectiveness, the core foundation of sales success still lies in understanding and addressing client needs, fostering trust, and delivering value through meaningful relationships.

    Building strong relationships with clients is not just a key to sales success, but also a significant factor in career advancement. By prioritizing client satisfaction, maintaining integrity, and nurturing long-term relationships, sales professionals can establish themselves as trusted advisors, drive business growth, and achieve lasting career success.

    Sales careers offer a wealth of opportunities for personal growth, travel, and unique experiences. It's a misconception that only extroverts can thrive in sales. In reality, many successful salespeople excel in establishing relationships and helping their clients, regardless of their personality type. So, if you're looking for a career that offers excitement and personal development, a sales career might be the perfect fit for you.

    Resources

    Faremouth.com

  • What if you could navigate the new work world with confidence and success? In this episode of Career Can Do, Mary Ann Faremouth welcomes Amine Qourzal, Associate Director of the Graduate Career Management Curriculum at Baylor University's Career Center in Waco, Texas. With nearly two decades of leadership experience, Amine is dedicated to helping students develop the skills and mindset needed to thrive in their future careers. His insights and expertise in coaching, goal setting, and professional development have made a significant impact on the students at Baylor University.

    Workplace culture plays a vital role in job satisfaction and retention, often surpassing the importance of compensation. Amine emphasizes the critical nature of a strong workplace culture where employees feel a sense of belonging, alignment with organizational values, and opportunities to thrive. Job seekers, particularly the newer generations, prioritize a positive workplace culture over high compensation. While salary may attract individuals to apply for a job, it is the culture that ultimately influences their decision to stay.

    Agood workplace culture fosters a sense of value, appreciation, and motivation among employees. Employees who feel valued and heard are more likely to be engaged, productive, and committed to the organization. This aligns with the idea that a positive workplace culture can lead to higher retention rates, increased productivity, and overall job satisfaction.

    Conducting research through platforms like Glassdoor and seeking insights from current employees or alumni aids in determining if a job offer is worth accepting. By asking questions about the culture, communication, leadership style, and work-life balance, job seekers can gain a better understanding of the organization's environment. A toxic work culture, characterized by poor leadership, lack of empathy, high turnover, and negative impacts on personal life, can have detrimental effects on employee well-being and job satisfaction.

    Furthermore, the episode highlighted the importance of open communication and feedback in a healthy workplace culture. Employees value being able to express their ideas, concerns, and struggles to leadership in a respectful manner. This open dialogue fosters a supportive environment where employees feel valued, appreciated, and empowered to contribute to the organization's success.

    While compensation is important, a positive culture that promotes a sense of belonging, growth, and well-being can have a profound impact on employee engagement and organizational success. By prioritizing a strong workplace culture, organizations can create an environment where employees thrive, leading to increased productivity, retention, and overall job satisfaction.

    Resources

    Amine Qourzal on LinkedIn

    Faremouth.com

  • And what if you could find peace and resilience in the midst of life's storms? Dr. Manizeh Mirza-Gruber, MD, a board-certified psychiatrist and mindfulness expert, joins Mary Ann Faremouth on this episode of Career Can Do to share how mindfulness practices can help us navigate challenging times with grace and strength. Dr. Mirza-Gruber, the CEO and founder of Mindful in Practice, brings her expertise in mindfulness meditation, yoga, and mind-body medicine to guide us in finding inner peace and presence. In this enlightening conversation, she delves into the power of mindfulness in reducing stress, enhancing productivity, and fostering personal growth. Join us as we explore practical techniques to ground ourselves and cultivate self-compassion so we can be our best selves in the New Work World.

    In the podcast episode, Dr. Mirza-Gruber emphasizes the importance of mindfulness in dealing with stress, especially during challenging times. As defined by Dr. Mirza-Gruber, mindfulness involves paying attention to the present moment without judgment, allowing individuals to connect with their breath and body to shift from a stress response to a relaxation mode. By practicing mindfulness, individuals can ground themselves in the present moment, acknowledging their thoughts and feelings without getting caught up in them, ultimately leading to a sense of calm and clarity amidst uncertainty.

    Dr. Mirza-Gruber shares her personal experience during Hurricane Harvey, highlighting how challenging times can serve as opportunities for growth and transformation. Despite the difficulties faced during the natural disaster, Dr. Mirza-Gruber viewed it as a guide that led her to new paths and opportunities for personal and professional development. Through the lens of mindfulness and gratitude, she navigated adversity and found meaning in the experience, ultimately leading to a deeper sense of purpose and the ability to help others in profound ways.

    Self-compassion and inner resilience are vital in facing life's challenges. Dr. Mirza-Gruber emphasizes the need to be kind and compassionate towards oneself, recognizing that self-care and self-acceptance are essential components of navigating difficult circumstances. By cultivating a sense of inner strength and choosing how to respond to challenges with a positive mindset, individuals can tap into their own light and resilience, allowing them to shine brightly even in the midst of darkness.

    The practice of gratitude is highlighted as a powerful tool for reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. Dr. Mirza-Gruber shares her daily gratitude practice, emphasizing the transformative impact of focusing on things going well in life. By acknowledging and appreciating the blessings and moments of joy, individuals can shift their perspective towards a more positive mindset, fostering resilience and emotional well-being. The act of gratitude serves as a reminder to find light within oneself and in the world, leading to a sense of inner peace and contentment.

    Resources
    Manizeh Mirza-Gruber, MD on LinkedIn | Website
    Faremouth.com

  • What if you could navigate the new work world with confidence and purpose? Join Mary Ann Faremouth on this episode of Career Can Do as she delves into life lessons about relationships, integrity, and contributing to the world with Tom Fox. Mary Ann, a seasoned recruiter turned author and podcast host, shares insights from her recent book, "Revolutionary Results." Through stories of butterflies, dragonflies, and falling on her face, Mary Ann intertwines personal experiences with professional inspiration to guide listeners on a journey of self-discovery and growth.

    Mary Ann reflects on the power of change, the importance of relationships, and the significance of finding your own North Star. She discusses her writing style, the impact of serendipitous encounters, and the value of courage in embracing new opportunities. Also, she explores the transformative potential of navigating life's challenges and finding fulfillment in both personal and professional endeavors.

    Change is inevitable in life, and adapting to those changes is crucial for personal and professional growth. Mary Ann emphasizes, "The only real constant in life is change." She highlights the importance of taking action to transform our lives in response to changes, comparing the journey to navigating by the North Star. Just as the North Star guides sailors through the seas, embracing change and adapting can lead us to new and fulfilling destinations.

    The COVID-19 pandemic brought about significant changes in the work world, impacting both job seekers and employers. Mary Ann delves into the challenges faced by individuals during this time, including job losses and company closures. She reflects on how the pandemic prompted many to reevaluate their career paths and personal lives. Through her experiences as a recruiter and writer, Mary Ann offers insights into the importance of resilience and adaptability in navigating through changing and challenging times.

    Resources
    Faremouth.com

  • Are you looking to make more intentional changes in your professional life? Dr. Sharon Hull, founder of Metta Solutions, believes it takes courage and change to create a ‘bespoke career.’ As the creator of the Bespoke Life Network, an online community dedicated to helping individuals create custom-fit careers and intentional lives, Sharon encourages others to step off the traditional career path and make decisions grounded in what truly matters to them.

    The COVID-19 pandemic brought significant changes to the work environment. It forced a reset in how we view work: prioritizing humans over productivity. The pandemic prompted individuals to reassess their career paths and priorities, leading to a greater focus on intentional and meaningful approaches to work and life. Employers and employees alike had to adapt to the constantly changing world, with a shift towards understanding the human aspect of work and the need for courage to make intentional changes. It was a catalyst for individuals to seek alignment between their personal values and their professional endeavors, ultimately reshaping the way we approach work in the new world.

    Generational perspectives in the workplace play a significant role in shaping the dynamics and culture of organizations. Each generation brings unique values, work styles, and expectations to the table. While it’s easy to label different generations, at our core, we are all human beings seeking respect, understanding, and fulfillment in our work. By embracing our differences, we can create a more inclusive and collaborative environment that leverages the strengths of each generation, so that we can foster a workplace culture that values diversity in perspectives.

    Creating meaning and purpose in life is a dynamic and ongoing commitment that can lead to a fulfilling and successful journey. We must be intentional about aligning our actions with what truly matters to us, both personally and professionally. It’s a new work world, sometimes scary, but if we focus on what brings us fulfillment and joy, we can navigate with clarity and purpose. Just as Sharon emphasizes in her work, when organizations prioritize understanding how humans make meaning and purpose out of their lives, they are better positioned for success in the ever-evolving landscape of work.

    Resources

    Dr. Sharon Hull | LinkedIn | Website

    Faremouth.com

  • What can leaders learn from elite athletes, and how can they navigate leadership shock in the ever-changing work world? In this Career Can Do podcast episode, host Mary Ann Faremouth delves into these questions with leadership and innovation expert Pete Steinberg. Through their insightful conversation, listeners gain valuable insights on maximizing potential, differentiating between stress and leadership shock, and the importance of building relationships in the workplace. Join Mary Ann and Pete as they explore the intersection of high performance in sports and business, offering practical advice for individuals seeking to excel in their careers.

    Have you heard of leadership shock? Pete and Mary Ann discuss the concept of leadership shock and stress. Leadership shock occurs when there is a significant change in a leader's context, such as a new role or organizational shift, leading to feelings of confusion and inefficiency. On the other hand, stress is seen as a temporary pressure that can actually help individuals perform better. By differentiating between the two, leaders can address the root causes of their challenges and work towards more effective leadership strategies.

    Traditional hiring practices focus on experience. Pete’s ideas on hiring successfully are rather different. He emphasizes the importance of hiring based on attributes rather than solely focusing on experience. Commitment, passion, attention to detail, and innovation are key qualities to look for in potential candidates. While experience and skills can be developed over time, attributes are inherent traits that can significantly impact an individual's performance and contribution to the organization.

    Relationships are key both in work and life. Mary Ann and Pete dive into the significance of building relationships in the workplace, especially in the current post-COVID work environment. Pete highlights the value of face-to-face interactions and creating a sense of purpose when employees come into the office. Strong relationships can enhance employee engagement, productivity, and overall satisfaction. Building a culture of meaningful interactions and teamwork can contribute to the success and longevity of the business.


    Resources

    Pete Steinberg | Website | LinkedIn

    Faremouth.com

  • What if you could transform your life and career through the power of travel? Join Mary Ann Faremouth on this episode of Career Can Do as she sits down with Cindy Peck, the mastermind behind Traveling Texans. Cindy shares how traveling with a group can lead to new friendships, exposure to different cultures, and personal growth. With over 15 years of experience as a travel agent, Cindy has organized unforgettable trips that have left a lasting impact on the lives of many. Discover the benefits of group travel, the importance of camaraderie in healthy aging, and how exploring the world can enhance your creativity and productivity in the workplace.

    Traveling in a group offers numerous benefits, such as making new friends and experiencing new cultures. Cindy Peck, the founder of Traveling Texans, emphasizes the importance of camaraderie and new friendships as part of healthy aging. She states, "the group environment and making new friends is part of healthy aging." Traveling with a group also provides safety, convenience, and competitive pricing, so you can explore the world and build lasting connections with like-minded individuals.

    Travel allows networking opportunities and potential professional connections you might not have otherwise. "You never know what's going to come from taking a trip," Mary Ann says, and shares her own story of unexpected networking and job opportunities while on a cruise. One job candidate even impressed a potential employer by bonding over a shared love of Paris. At Traveling Texans, Cindy makes sure to welcome people of all ages from around the world, expanding that potential network even more.

    Traveling in a group not only enriches your life with new experiences but also contributes to personal growth and well-being. Mary Ann reflects on how her trip with Traveling Texans inspired creativity, relaxation, and a sense of rejuvenation. She notes, "I came back from this trip so inspired, so rested, so much more creative." By stepping out of your comfort zone, exploring new destinations, and forming meaningful connections, you can enhance your overall well-being and cultivate personal growth.


    Resources

    Cindy Peck on LinkedIn | Traveling Texans Instagram | Traveling Texans Meetup Page

    Faremouth.com

  • What can working with Hollywood stars like Woody Harrelson and Rod Steward teach you about creativity in the workplace? In this episode of Career Can Do, Mary Ann Faremouth is joined by Nir Bashan, an award-winning entrepreneur with a long history of experience in advertising and entertainment. His message is clear: creativity is critical in the workplace. Everyone has the potential to be creative; it just takes a little effort and space to allow that creativity to flourish.

    Nir's book, The Creator Mindset, offers a recipe for success by encouraging individuals to make time for creativity in their daily lives. He suggests allocating time in your calendar specifically for creative thinking, as regular practice can lead to innovative solutions and a balanced approach to work. Nir highlights the importance of balancing creativity with analytics, as both are essential for personal and professional growth.

    Creativity is not limited to traditional artistic fields like music or film, nor is it limited to artistic types like painters and graphic artists. The heart of creativity in the workplace involves looking at problems from a different perspective and finding innovative solutions. By stepping outside your comfort zone and embracing discomfort, you can unlock new opportunities for growth and success.

    Nir also emphasizes the value of honesty and transparency in the hiring process. He encourages employers to look beyond the checkboxes on a resume and consider candidates' potential for growth and development. There's a massive, untapped talent pool filled with U.S. military veterans who bring valuable skills like discipline and adaptability to the workforce. Overall, Nir's message is clear: creativity, honesty, and a willingness to step outside your comfort zone are key ingredients for success in the new work world.

    Resources

    Nir Bashan on the Web | The Creator Mindset

    Faremouth.com

  • Are you struggling to find the right career path that aligns with your strengths and passions? In this episode of Career Can Do, Mary Ann Faremouth is joined by Shell Mendelson, a seasoned expert in counseling and author of "A Course for ADHD Adults and Teens: Unlock Your Career Path." Shell's unique approach focuses on helping individuals, especially those with ADHD, develop confidence and clarity in their career choices. Join us as we uncover the importance of mindset, self-accommodation in the workplace, and the journey to finding a fulfilling and sustainable career direction.

    Self-awareness plays a crucial role in career development, especially for individuals with ADHD. Shell emphasizes the importance of identifying what conditions work and don't work for you in the workplace. By creating a self-accommodation plan based on these insights, you can prioritize their needs and align them with your career goals. This process not only empowers you to advocate for yourself but also helps you find a work environment that resonates with your strengths and preferences. Shell speaks from experience. She shares how understanding herself was key to thriving in her professional journey.

    Those with ADHD often possess unique strengths, such as creativity and flexibility, that can be valuable assets in the workplace. It is key for you to find a career path that allows you to leverage your strengths effectively, so you can tailor your career choices to align with your natural inclinations and preferences. Not only will you enhance your job satisfaction, but also, you’ll be able to make more meaningful contributions in your field.

    While it is valuable to gain industry knowledge and experience in corporate settings first, many people with ADHD gravitate toward entrepreneurship and self-employment, either as a direct choice or as a natural part of career progression. They prefer working independently because it allows them more control over their work environment, how and when they show up, and the best way to leverage their creativity and flexibility.

    Resources

    Shell Mendelson on the Web | LinkedIn | Facebook | 

    “Unlock Your Career Path: A Course for ADHD Adults and Teens”

    Faremouth.com

  • In this episode of Career Can Do, Mary Ann Faremouth is joined by Merritt Chastain, Executive Director of the National Association of Pipe Coating Applicators (NAPCA), to discuss the transformative power of niche networking and the unique opportunities it brings to your career journey. Being part of a specialized platform like NAPCA allows for deeper connections, creating a supportive community where members can learn, grow, and succeed together. In a world where specialization is key, embracing platforms like NAPCA can lead to unparalleled advancement in your career.

    One of the best ways to begin niche networking is to attend industry events and conventions, where you can build meaningful relationships that lead directly to new career prospects and collaborations in your field. In addition, you’ll be able to stay updated on industry trends, share your own knowledge, and develop your skills. Together, these benefits can propel your career to new heights.

    Merritt shares insider knowledge about how NAPCA holds its conventions, making them incredibly valuable to attendees. By featuring high caliber experts who discuss critical topics such as hydrogen transportation and cybersecurity in the pipeline industry, NAPCA ensures that members stay informed and engaged with the latest advancements. Making every event relevant, timely, and valuable encourages members to attend more upcoming events, enabling them to build long-term relationships within the industry.

    There’s more to niche platforms than networking. There’s also a sense of community. Industry communities offer a supportive and inclusive environment where members can forge lasting friendships and personal connections. NAPCA ensures their events are family-friendly, making community building even easier and creating a sense of belonging and camaraderie. By combining business opportunities with social interactions, NAPCA provides a holistic experience that benefits its members personally and professionally.

    Resources

    Merritt Chastain on LinkedIn | NAPCA  

    Faremouth.com

  • In this episode of Career Can Do, Dr. Marie-Hélène Pelletier joins Mary Ann Faremouth to discuss how resilience is the key to overcoming burnout and becoming your best self. Dr. Pelletier, an award-winning mental health expert, draws on her clinical practice and extensive corporate experience to provide insights on building resilience in the face of challenges. As an employment recruiter for over 30 years, Marianne understands the importance of resilience in today's fast-paced and ever-changing world. Together, they explore practical strategies and a resilience plan to help individuals thrive in their careers. Tune in to this episode to discover how to tap into your resilience and unlock your limitless potential.

    Resilience is essential in navigating the new work world. Dr. Pelletier emphasizes the significance of resilience in overcoming challenges and burnout in today's fast-paced and constantly changing work environment. She highlights the need for individuals to invest in self-awareness and develop a strategic resilience plan that considers their values, strengths, and current context. By creating a realistic and implementable plan, individuals can increase their self-efficacy and effectively navigate transitions to achieve career success.

    Building empowering beliefs and taking strategic actions are key to career success. Dr. Pelletier discusses the importance of holding empowering beliefs and being strategic in one's approach to career development. By cultivating self-awareness and identifying transferable skills, individuals can present themselves confidently and adapt to new roles or industries. She emphasizes the need to focus on realistic and achievable actions, such as building a support network and prioritizing self-care, to increase self-efficacy and create positive outcomes in the job search process.

    Success is not solely determined by qualifications or experience but by the mindset and proactive approach we bring to our professional journeys. Embrace resilience, cultivate empowering beliefs, and take strategic actions, we can navigate the new work world with confidence and achieve long-term career success.

    Resources

    Dr. Marie-Hélène Pelletier on the Web | LinkedIn | Instagram | “The Resilience Plan” Book

    Faremouth.com

  • What does it take to unlock your full potential and achieve career success? In this episode of Career Can Do, Pamela McCown joins Mary Ann Faremouth in this episode of Career Can Do to share some surprising insights on how to do just that. Pamela is a past international director of Toastmasters, a renowned organization that helps individuals develop their communication and leadership skills. With her extensive experience and expertise, Pamela will discuss the benefits of joining Toastmasters and how it can help you navigate the new work world. From refining your speaking skills to cultivating friendships and continuous learning, Toastmasters offers a supportive environment for personal and professional growth.

    Pamela shares how Toastmasters can help you refine speaking skills, improve listening and thinking skills, and enhance communication abilities. Toastmasters also offers opportunities for networking, cultivating friendships, and continuous learning and leadership training. The organization fosters a supportive learning environment where members receive immediate feedback and suggestions for improvement. Toastmasters is seen as a valuable resource for personal and professional development, helping individuals become better versions of themselves.

    Listening is a crucial component of effective communication. In Toastmasters, members learn to understand their audience and listen to their needs and preferences. This skill is transferable to the work world, where employees must comprehend their company's goals and expectations. By actively listening and thinking about how to add value based on what they have heard, individuals can effectively communicate their message and demonstrate their worth to employers or colleagues. Toastmasters encourages the development of listening skills to enhance overall communication abilities.

    Everyone knows how critical networking is to your career. Organizations like Toastmasters provides a platform for individuals to connect with professionals from various backgrounds and industries. These connections can lead to valuable relationships, mentorship opportunities, and even job prospects. The episode emphasizes the importance of building a network and how Toastmasters can facilitate this process. By engaging with fellow members and participating in club activities, individuals can expand their professional circle and open doors to new opportunities.


    Resources
    Pamela LinkedIn

    Toastmasters | Facebook | TikTok | LinkedIn | YouTube | Instagram | X(Twitter)

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