Work Should Feel Good with Diana Alt

Work Should Feel Good is the no-BS career podcast for people who want more from their work, without selling their soul to get it. Hosted by career strategist and layoff survivor Diana Alt, this show shares real stories, mindset shifts, and practical strategies to help you grow your career on your terms. You'll hear from recruiters, entrepreneurs, leaders, and everyday professionals in episodes that drop most Wednesdays. Let's make work feel good - together.

Episode 66: The Comeback That Changed Everything with Terry Weaver 08/11/2026

Episode 65: Building Visual Authority That Builds Trust with Eden Oates 08/04/2026

Episode 65: Building Visual Authority That Builds Trust with Eden Oates What if your appearance is either reinforcing or quietly undermining the credibility you've already earned? In this episode, Diana sits down with image strategist Eden Oates to explore how visual authority builds trust, confidence, and connection without feeling fake or performative. Whether you're a corporate leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to strengthen your personal brand, you'll learn how to align your external presence with who you really are so that your first impression supports the value you bring. Why visual authority is about psychology, not fashion How clothing influences trust and credibility before you speak The difference between authenticity and creating a persona Choosing colors and style that reflect your brand—not someone else's Why understanding your audience matters more than following style rules Dressing for the result you want instead of simply getting dressed Common mistakes professionals make that create unnecessary friction Building confidence through congruence between your inside and outside Creating a signature style without becoming a caricature Practical ways to elevate your professional presence without spending money ⏳ Timestamps 00:00 Intro & Meet Eden Oates 01:40 Why Eden chose red as her signature color 05:00 Growing up around entrepreneurship and discovering personal style 09:30 From helping others shine to stepping onto the stage herself 12:00 Is investing in your image superficial? 17:00 What people communicate before they ever speak 20:00 Reading the room and dressing for your audience 23:00 Building a personal brand that feels authentic 28:00 Translating your personality into visual style 33:00 Signature colors, brand identity, and avoiding gimmicks 36:30 Body language, presence, and creating trust 40:00 Finding confidence without pretending to be someone else 44:30 Looking polished on any budget 💡 Take Action 🔥 Subscribe for future episodes → 📖 Grab my Resume Don’ts Guide → ❌ Avoid these common job search mistakes → 🚪 Wondering if it’s time to walk away? → 💼 Work with me → 📢 Connect with Eden Oates 🌐 Website → 🎁 Free Resource → The Exclusive Style™ System: Make Your Style a Magnet for Premium Clients & Opportunities 📸 Instagram → @exclusively_eden 📘 Facebook → @exclusively_eden 📲 Follow Me LinkedIn → YouTube → Facebook → TikTok → /episode/index/show/18553c0d-032e-45bd-839f-c17a8556872c/id/42311375

Episode 64: The Interview Skills That Get You Hired with Lili Foggle 07/28/2026

Episode 64: The Interview Skills That Get You Hired with Lili Foggle In this episode, Diana sits down with interview expert Lili Foggle to explore why interviewing is really about strategic communication, authentic connection, and understanding what employers are actually looking for. From AI's impact on hiring to practical interview preparation strategies, this conversation is packed with insights that will help you interview with greater confidence and clarity. Why communication skills matter more than ever in the age of AI The difference between memorizing answers and authentic interview preparation How to build strategic messaging instead of scripted responses Why interview skills translate directly into career success The importance of researching company values, not just company facts Understanding team fit versus technical qualifications How to create genuine connection and relational presence during interviews Why storytelling should be flexible, not memorized ⏳ Timestamps 00:00 Welcome & introducing Lili Foggle 01:30 Lili's unexpected journey from actor to interview coach 08:45 Why great communicators often outperform more experienced candidates 14:30 Why communication skills are becoming even more valuable in the AI era 18:45 Stop memorizing interview answers 24:00 Building strategic messaging instead of scripted responses 33:00 How to research a company the right way 40:30 Understanding values, team fit, and hiring decisions 47:00 Relational presence vs. "rapport building" 54:00 Matching interviewer energy without losing authenticity 💡 Take Action 🔥 Subscribe for future episodes → 📖 Grab my Resume Don’ts Guide → ❌ Avoid these common job search mistakes → 🚪 Wondering if it’s time to walk away? → 💼 Work with me → 📢 Connect with Lili Foggle 🌐 Website → 🔗 LinkedIn → 📲 TikTok → 📲 Follow Me On Social Media LinkedIn → YouTube → Facebook → TikTok → /episode/index/show/18553c0d-032e-45bd-839f-c17a8556872c/id/42239475

Episode 63: The Science of Becoming More Memorable with Michael Roderick 07/21/2026

Episode 63: The Science of Becoming More Memorable with Michael Roderick What does it really take to build authentic professional relationships in a world increasingly dominated by AI and transactional networking? In this conversation, Diana sits down with Michael Roderick, CEO of Small Pond Enterprise LLC and host of the Access to Anyone podcast, to explore how clarity, curiosity, and memorable communication create opportunities that traditional networking never will. Michael's unconventional path from teaching to Broadway producing Why collaboration beats competition when building professional relationships The power of specificity when asking for introductions What makes someone truly referable The AIM framework: Accessibility, Influence, and Memory The LESS framework for making ideas memorable Why clarity always beats cleverness Moving from pitching yourself to discussing the problem you solve The difference between attracting aspirational audiences versus ideal clients Practical networking strategies that create genuine advocates ⏳ Timestamps 00:00 Welcome & introducing Michael Roderick 01:35 Marvel fandom, collectibles, and finding common ground 07:28 Michael's journey from teacher to Broadway producer 18:20 From Broadway to relationship-building expert 22:08 Why referrals fail without clarity and specificity 30:00 The AIM framework: Accessibility, Influence & Memory 39:40 The LESS framework for memorable communication 41:40 Stop pitching yourself—start with the problem you solve 47:45 The IPO framework: Idea, Problem & Outcome 50:00 Why clarity beats cleverness in communication 51:10 Introducing the framework that inspired Diana to invite Michael 💡 Take Action 🔥 Subscribe for future episodes → 📖 Grab my Resume Don'ts Guide → ❌ Avoid these common job search mistakes → 🚪 Wondering if it's time to walk away? → 💼 Work with me → 📢 Connect with Michael Roderick 🌐 Website → 🎙️ Access to Anyone Podcast → 🔗 LinkedIn → 📘 Facebook → ✖️ X → 📲 Follow Me LinkedIn → YouTube → Facebook → TikTok → /episode/index/show/18553c0d-032e-45bd-839f-c17a8556872c/id/42150285

Episode 62: How to Build Influence Without Becoming an Influencer with Mark Lebrun 07/14/2026

Episode 62: How to Build Influence Without Becoming an Influencer with Mark Lebrun What does it actually mean to have influence and do you really need to become an "influencer" to make an impact? In this episode, Diana sits down with digital strategist Mark Lebrun to unpack why genuine influence has far more to do with trust, service, and credibility than follower counts or viral content. Whether you're a corporate professional, business owner, or aspiring thought leader, you'll learn practical ways to build a digital reputation that creates opportunities without sacrificing your authenticity. Why influence is about impact, not popularity Building trust before building an audience Creating a digital reputation that opens career opportunities How professionals can show up online without becoming "influencers" Choosing the right platform for your goals Why consistency doesn't mean posting every day Common mistakes on LinkedIn, TikTok, and YouTube Protecting your online reputation while growing your visibility How digital credibility creates career and business opportunities Mark's entrepreneurial journey from educator to digital strategist ⏳ Timestamps 00:00 Intro & why "influencer" isn't the goal 04:15 How Mark accidentally built a digital influence business 10:45 From hope dealer to digital strategist 14:25 Why so many professionals resist social media 18:10 Redefining influence through trust and impact 23:40 Audience building vs. trust building 28:55 Building a professional reputation without risking your career 36:45 Platform strategy: LinkedIn, TikTok & YouTube 44:20 What actually builds credibility online 48:35 What happens if social media disappears tomorrow? 53:00 Handling criticism, haters & protecting your online reputation 1:00:10 The worst career advice Mark ever received 💡 Take Action 🔥 Subscribe for future episodes → 📖 Grab my Resume Don’ts Guide → ❌ Avoid these common job search mistakes → 🚪 Wondering if it’s time to walk away? → 💼 Work with me → 📢 Connect with Mark Lebrun 🌐 Website & Socials → 🎁 Free Resources → 📲 Follow Me LinkedIn → YouTube → Facebook → TikTok → /episode/index/show/18553c0d-032e-45bd-839f-c17a8556872c/id/42067515

Episode 61: Knowing the Why Behind Your Target with Lucy Norris 07/07/2026

Episode 61: Knowing the Why Behind Your Target with Lucy Norris What happens when your career is driven by purpose instead of titles? In this episode, Diana sits down with workplace experience and food systems leader Lucy Norris to explore the importance of knowing the deeper "why" behind your career choices. From building healthier workplaces to navigating a long job search with intention, Lucy shares practical wisdom on creating meaningful work without letting your job become your entire identity. Finding the common thread through a nontraditional career Why meaningful work doesn't have to become your identity The connection between food, wellbeing, and workplace experience Creating healthier workplaces through thoughtful employee experiences Lessons from Lucy's eight-month job search Why networking matters more than endless online applications The power of narrowing your target instead of applying everywhere Using personal values to evaluate career opportunities Stoicism, resilience, and focusing on what you can control Building a career around ownership, impact, and purpose ⏳ Timestamps 00:00 Intro & Meet Lucy Norris 02:10 The story behind the Daruma doll and setting meaningful goals 08:45 Finding the common thread across an unconventional career 12:20 Why food is about wellbeing—not just eating 20:30 Food systems, workplace experience, and reducing friction 27:00 Creating healthier work environments through thoughtful design 31:05 Lucy's eight-month job search and what wasn't working 39:00 The Job Seeker Summit that changed her approach 42:00 Why networking beat online applications 48:00 Narrowing the target instead of chasing every opportunity 52:30 Discovering the importance of ownership and meaningful work 56:30 Final thoughts on purpose, identity, and building a career that fits 💡 Take Action 🔥 Subscribe for future episodes → 📖 Grab my Resume Don’ts Guide → ❌ Avoid these common job search mistakes → 🚪 Wondering if it’s time to walk away? → 💼 Work with me → 📢 Connect with Lucy Norris 🌐 Website → 🔗 LinkedIn → 📖 Book → Pickled Vegetables, Fruits and More 📲 Follow Me LinkedIn → YouTube → Facebook → TikTok → /episode/index/show/18553c0d-032e-45bd-839f-c17a8556872c/id/41989090

Episode 60: Why Employee Benefits Should Help You Build a Life with Larry Salazar 06/30/2026

Episode 60: Why Employee Benefits Should Help You Build a Life with Larry Salazar Employee benefits are often treated as paperwork and perks, but what if they could become one of the most powerful tools for improving employee retention and helping people build the lives they actually want? In this episode, Diana sits down with Larry Salazar to discuss why employers need to think beyond traditional benefits and invest in the whole person—not just the employee. From financial wellness and homeownership to career growth and workplace culture, they explore how meaningful benefits create stronger teams, healthier workplaces, and better lives. Larry's journey from broadcast journalism to entrepreneurship Why work and personal life can't be separated The hidden costs of employee turnover Why benefits should support the whole person Traditional benefits vs. modern employee expectations How financial stress impacts productivity at work Housing as an employee benefit and retention strategy Homeownership, financial education, and long-term wealth building Building the business case for innovative employee benefits The role of purpose in career decisions Why following your passion often matters more than following the money ⏳ Timestamps 00:00 Welcome & introducing Larry Salazar 02:20 Larry's journalism career and desire to make a difference 05:20 From Boeing to entrepreneurship through homeownership 11:00 Building Nest Steps after a layoff 17:20 Why employers need to invest in the whole person 21:00 Which employee benefits actually improve retention? 24:30 Housing assistance as a modern employee benefit 35:10 Financial education and preparing employees for homeownership 44:30 Helping existing homeowners build long-term wealth 49:45 Why purpose beats simply following the money 💡 Take Action 🔥 Subscribe for future episodes → 📖 Grab my Resume Don’ts Guide → ❌ Avoid these common job search mistakes → 🚪 Wondering if it’s time to walk away? → 💼 Work with me → 📢 Connect with Larry Salazar 🌐 NestSTEPS → 🔗LinkedIn / Social → 📲 Follow Me On Social Media LinkedIn → YouTube → Facebook → TikTok → /episode/index/show/18553c0d-032e-45bd-839f-c17a8556872c/id/41861735

Episode 59: Creativity Practice to Fuel Innovation with Mike Brennan 06/23/2026

Episode 59: Creativity Practice to Fuel Innovation with Mike Brennan What if creativity isn't something you have, it's something you practice? In this conversation, Diana Alt sits down with artist, speaker, and creative mentor Mike Brennan to explore how a simple daily creative habit transformed his life after burnout and depression. Together, they unpack why creativity matters far beyond the arts and how consistent creative practice can fuel innovation, resilience, curiosity, and fulfillment at work and in life. How Mike rebuilt his creativity after a 10-year hiatus The connection between burnout, alignment, and creative expression Why creativity is bigger than art The four pillars of a sustainable creative practice The power of starting small and building consistency Creativity as a tool for innovation and problem-solving How play and experimentation unlock new ideas Lessons learned from Mike's health scare and forced pause Identity, purpose, and living a more colorful life Applying creativity within teams and organizations ⏳ Timestamps 00:00 Intro & Meet Mike Brennan 01:16 The origin of the Daily Creative Habit 04:51 Creativity, career choices, and burnout 07:04 Returning to creativity after depression 10:09 The first sketch: embracing imperfect beginnings 13:19 Why Mike picked up the sketchbook again 17:40 The four pillars of creative practice 22:43 Why consistency is so difficult 24:10 A heart attack, forced rest, and identity shifts 31:43 Why everyone is creative 38:11 Bringing creativity into teams and organizations 45:42 Creativity, purpose, and living a colorful life 💡Take Action 🔥 Subscribe for future episodes → 📖 Grab my Resume Don’ts Guide → ❌ Avoid these common job search mistakes → 🚪 Wondering if it’s time to walk away? → 💼 Work with me → 📢 Connect with Mike Brennan 🌐 Website → 🔗 LinkedIn → 📺 YouTube → 📘 Facebook → 📸 Instagram → 📰 Daily Creative Habit Newsletter → 📲 Follow Me On Social Media LinkedIn → YouTube → Facebook → TikTok → /episode/index/show/18553c0d-032e-45bd-839f-c17a8556872c/id/41739780

Episode 58: How to Fix Burnout Without Fixing Yourself with Cass Cooper 06/16/2026

Episode 58: How to Fix Burnout Without Fixing Yourself with Cass Cooper Burnout isn’t a personal failure, it's a systems problem. In this episode, Diana sits down with Cass Cooper to unpack how high performance often masks exhaustion, why “fixing yourself” won’t solve burnout, and what actually needs to change at work. Why burnout is a systems issue, not an individual weakness How high performers unknowingly mask exhaustion The role of meeting culture and notification overload in burnout Why “soft skills” are actually critical infrastructure How to say no without damaging relationships or performance The connection between personal boundaries and workplace behavior Practical ways to start recovering from burnout immediately ⏳ Timestamps 02:30 Cass’s burnout story and pandemic wake-up call 06:00 Realizing burnout isn’t just fatigue 09:00 First steps to recovery: saying no and creating boundaries 13:00 Therapy, health, and systemic barriers to recovery 17:00 When burnout becomes a systems problem 21:30 How workplace culture contributes to burnout 26:30 Notifications, distractions, and attention overload 30:00 Why entrepreneurs recreate burnout patterns 33:00 “No one is coming to save you” — personal responsibility vs systems 36:30 High performance masking exhaustion 40:00 What leaders miss about burned-out employees 43:30 A real leadership intervention that worked 47:00 Soft skills as critical infrastructure 50:00 How to say no without saying no 54:00 Small, actionable steps to reduce burnout 57:30 Worst career advice and closing thoughts 💡 Take Action 🔥 Subscribe for future episodes → 📖 Grab my Resume Don’ts Guide → ❌ Avoid these common job search mistakes → 🚪 Wondering if it’s time to walk away from your job? → 💼 Work with me → 📢 Connect with Cass Cooper 🌐 Website → 🔗 LinkedIn → 📲 Instagram → 📲TikTok → 📲 Follow Me LinkedIn → YouTube → Facebook → TikTok → /episode/index/show/18553c0d-032e-45bd-839f-c17a8556872c/id/41660575

Episode 57: Real World AI, Work, and the Future of Thinking with Rob Voss 06/09/2026

Episode 57: Real World AI, Work, and the Future of Thinking with Rob Voss What happens when a historian becomes an AI consultant? In this episode, Diana Alt sits down with Rob Voss to explore the real-world impact of AI on work, education, business, and how we think. Rather than focusing on futuristic hype, Rob shares practical insights on how AI is already changing the way people learn, make decisions, and solve problems. Whether you're AI-curious, leading a team, or wondering how to stay relevant in a rapidly changing workplace, this conversation will help you think more strategically about the future. Why AI adoption is happening differently than past technologies What history can teach us about technological change The rise of AI in education and its impact on critical thinking How businesses can move from AI experimentation to implementation AI as an augmentation tool rather than a replacement tool Data centers, public perception, and the infrastructure behind AI The importance of AI literacy for employees and leaders How AI is changing the pace and intensity of work Practical examples of using AI as a thinking partner Ethical considerations for AI adoption in schools and organizations ⏳ Timestamps 00:00 Intro and Rob's unique path from historian to AI consultant 07:11 Why AI adoption is different from previous technological revolutions 13:28 Data centers, infrastructure, and public perception 20:53 From professor to AI consultant 22:34 Digital humanities and the power of AI 30:11 What faculty and students really think about AI 34:56 Why organizations are failing employees on AI training 37:48 Bringing AI into the classroom 43:25 Student reactions to AI-assisted learning 49:36 How businesses can use AI more effectively 💡 Take Action 🔥 Subscribe for future episodes → 📖 Grab my Resume Don’ts Guide → ❌ Avoid these common job search mistakes → 🚪 Wondering if it’s time to walk away? → 💼 Work with me → 📢 Connect with Rob Voss 🌐 Website → 🔗 LinkedIn → 📱 X (Twitter) → 🎁 AI Tools & Resources → 📲 Follow Me On Social Media LinkedIn → YouTube → Facebook → TikTok → /episode/index/show/18553c0d-032e-45bd-839f-c17a8556872c/id/41583520

Episode 56: Why Success Doesn’t Feel Good with Dr. Ketam Hamdan 06/02/2026

Episode 56: Why Success Doesn’t Feel Good with Dr. Ketam Hamdan Why do so many successful people still feel stuck, anxious, disconnected, or unfulfilled? In this episode, Diana Alt sits down with brain health expert and licensed therapist Dr. Ketam Hamdan to explore the hidden patterns driving our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Drawing on her background in consulting, psychology, neuroscience, and brain mapping, Dr. Hamdan explains why understanding your "Inner AI" can help you break old patterns, reconnect with yourself, and build a life that feels as good on the inside as it looks on the outside. Why external success doesn't always create internal fulfillment Dr. Hamdan's transition from consulting to brain health and therapy The concept of your "Inner AI" and adaptive intelligence How childhood experiences shape adult behavior Why thoughts are not facts The mind-body connection and emotional processing Distress tolerance versus emotional regulation Joy as a measure of well-being The impact of doom scrolling on brain function How comparison and unprocessed emotions affect mental health What it really takes to change long-standing patterns ⏳ Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Ketam Hamdan and the "Inner AI" concept 02:22 Leaving consulting and searching for deeper meaning 06:09 Why knowing what to do isn't enough 11:13 A transformative lesson in presence and human connection 14:00 Understanding your hidden brain wiring 18:50 Adaptive intelligence and learning to adjust 20:39 Thoughts are not facts 22:00 The mind-body connection and emotional storage 25:05 Distress tolerance versus emotional regulation 29:45 Success, trauma, and emotional suppression in professionals 35:16 Reconnecting with joy and your authentic self 38:33 Childhood roles and losing your sense of play 40:38 Doom scrolling and what it does to your brain 46:20 Comparison, trauma, and validating your experience 49:35 Can you really rewire your brain? 52:00 The role of willingness and readiness for change 💡 Take Action 🔥 Subscribe for future episodes → 📖 Grab my Resume Don’ts Guide → ❌ Avoid these common job search mistakes → 🚪 Wondering if it’s time to walk away? → 💼 Work with me → 📢 Connect with Dr. Ketam Hamdan 🌐 Website → 📸 Instagram → 🔗 LinkedIn → 📲 Follow Me On Social Media LinkedIn → YouTube → Facebook → TikTok → /episode/index/show/18553c0d-032e-45bd-839f-c17a8556872c/id/41506180

Episode 55: Stop Doing Everything Yourself with Louise Sandoval 05/26/2026

Episode 55: Stop Doing Everything Yourself with Louise Sandoval What happens when you stop trying to do everything yourself? In this episode, Diana sits down with Louise Sandoval, founder of Virtual Staff Pro, to talk about outsourcing, delegation, and building a support system that helps entrepreneurs grow sustainably. Louise shares how she went from medical laboratory science to running a global outsourcing agency and explains what business owners get wrong about hiring virtual assistants. Louise’s transition from healthcare into online business operations How Virtual Staff Pro evolved from a small VA team into a global agency The difference between hiring a single VA vs. working with a managed support team Common misconceptions about outsourcing and offshore support Communication and time zone best practices for remote collaboration Cultural insights about working with Filipino teams Why SOPs and delegation often feel harder than they should Signs it’s time to stop doing everything yourself The relationship between delegation, growth, and burnout prevention ⏳ Timestamps 00:00 Intro & meet Louise Sandoval 02:00 Cold spaghetti, Filipino food culture & banana ketchup 04:20 Louise’s path from medical science to online business 08:10 Discovering Kajabi & becoming a virtual assistant 11:30 How Virtual Staff Pro was built from the ground up 15:05 The agency model vs. hiring a single VA 18:20 Why project managers are the real “secret sauce” 21:15 Working across time zones & communication expectations 26:10 Filipino culture, weather realities & infrastructure challenges 31:20 The ethics of outsourcing, pricing & fair compensation 38:10 Building opportunities for people with disabilities 42:00 How to know when it’s time to outsource 45:00 SOPs, delegation & avoiding overengineering systems 💡 Take Action 🔥 Subscribe for future episodes → 📖 Grab my Resume Don’ts Guide → ❌ Avoid these common job search mistakes → 🚪 Wondering if it’s time to walk away from your job? → 💼 Work with me → 📢 Connect with Louise Sandoval 🌐 Website → 🔗 LinkedIn → 📘 Facebook → 📸 Instagram → 📸 Instagram (Personal) → 📲 Follow Me LinkedIn → YouTube → Facebook → TikTok → /episode/index/show/18553c0d-032e-45bd-839f-c17a8556872c/id/41422685

Episode 54: Soft Skills, Discernment & Leadership with Grace McCarrick 05/19/2026

Episode 54: Soft Skills, Discernment & Leadership with Grace McCarrick What actually separates high performers from the people who get promoted into leadership? In this episode, Diana Alt sits down with workforce strategist and founder Grace McCarrick to unpack the real-world value of soft skills, discernment, communication, and professional polish in today’s workplace. Why soft skills matter more in the AI era The real meaning of discernment at work How leaders evaluate communication and judgment Why “the work speaks for itself” is bad career advice The difference between feedback and performative transparency How workplace friction develops over time Professional appearance and “taking people out of the moment” The disconnect between Internet discourse and workplace reality Why digital literacy is becoming a critical soft skill How startups shape culture differently than large organizations ⏳ Timestamps 00:00 Intro & meeting through TikTok 02:10 Grace’s background in operations and startup culture 05:35 The “mom squad” story and operational discernment 09:20 Why soft skills are finally being taken seriously 12:05 The disconnect between company values and reality 15:20 What discernment actually means at work 19:45 How leaders communicate problems differently 23:10 Why people can’t “think” their way into soft skills 27:30 The danger of vague feedback cultures 31:05 Misusing soft skills and workplace perception 35:15 The viral “wet hair at work” conversation 40:10 What professionalism actually means today 45:20 Internet culture vs. workplace expectations 49:40 Digital literacy as the next critical soft skill 52:20 Worst career advice and changing perspectives 💡Take Action 🔥 Subscribe for future episodes → 📖 Grab my Resume Don’ts Guide → ❌ Avoid these common job search mistakes → 🚪 Wondering if it’s time to walk away? → 💼 Work with me → 📢 Connect with Grace McCarrick 🌐 Website → 🔗 LinkedIn → 📲 Follow Grace on Social Media: TikTok → Instagram → 📲 Follow Me On Social Media LinkedIn → YouTube → Facebook → TikTok → /episode/index/show/18553c0d-032e-45bd-839f-c17a8556872c/id/41346995

Episode 53: AI in Hiring Processes at Zapier with Bonnie Dilber 05/12/2026

Episode 53: AI in Hiring Processes at Zapier with Bonnie Dilber AI is changing hiring fast, but not always in the ways people think. In this conversation, Diana Alt sits down with recruiter and content creator Bonnie Dilber to unpack what’s really happening behind the scenes in modern hiring, from AI-powered screening tools to the realities of career pivots in today’s market. Transitioning from education into recruiting and tech Why strategic career pivots work better than dramatic reinventions Burnout, consulting, and experimenting with new career paths What AI is (and isn’t) doing in hiring today The realities of resume screening and applicant volume Why remote jobs are harder for career pivoters How AI may eventually improve hiring fairness Candidate fears around AI-powered hiring processes The overlap between recruiting, sales, and business development Why transferable skills still need clear positioning ⏳ Timestamps 00:00 Intro 01:40 Bonnie’s path from teaching to recruiting 07:30 Intentional vs. messy career pivots 11:10 Burnout and experimenting with consulting work 14:05 Skill acquisition vs. title obsession 17:45 What makes career pivots realistic right now 20:50 Diana’s “pivot foot” analogy explained 24:15 Why many pivots fail in today’s market 26:30 AI tools for honest job search feedback 29:00 How AI is showing up in hiring at Zapier 33:20 What AI recruiters and screeners actually do 36:10 Resume screening myths and realities 39:15 Why Bonnie believes AI could improve hiring fairness 42:00 Friction in applications and candidate experience 45:30 Neurodiversity concerns with AI interviews 48:15 What candidates misunderstand about AI in hiring 52:00 Final thoughts on hiring, pivots, and the future of work 💡Take Action 🔥 Subscribe for future episodes → 📖 Grab my Resume Don’ts Guide → ❌ Avoid these common job search mistakes → 🚪 Wondering if it’s time to walk away? → 💼 Work with me → 📢 Connect with Bonnie Dilber 🔗 LinkedIn → 📲 Follow Bonnie Dilber on Social Media → @bonniedilber 📩 Bonnie Dilber’s newsletter → 📲 Follow Me On Social Media LinkedIn → YouTube → Facebook → TikTok → /episode/index/show/18553c0d-032e-45bd-839f-c17a8556872c/id/41261645

Episode 52: Networking for Introverts with Greg Roche 05/05/2026

Episode 52: Networking for Introverts with Greg Roche Networking doesn’t have to mean awkward events or forced small talk. In this episode, Diana sits down with Greg Roche to break down a practical, low-pressure approach to building meaningful professional relationships especially for introverts. Rethinking what “networking” actually means Why traditional networking advice doesn’t work for introverts How Greg built his approach after being laid off Using “dormant ties” to restart your network Why being “easy to help” matters more than being impressive The power of specificity in asking for help How to describe what you do so people remember and refer you Why adjacent connections matter more than direct ones Simple outreach strategies that actually get responses ⏳ Timestamps 01:03 Meet Greg Roche and his background 03:16 Getting laid off and realizing the importance of networking 04:56 Rethinking networking for introverts 07:00 Early career experiences and hidden networking 12:05 Introversion, energy, and communication style 14:09 Learning to lead conversations through better questions 18:07 What networking is (and isn’t) 23:21 Why imagination matters in job search networking 26:29 How to make it easy for people to help you 29:10 Why vague asks don’t work 32:14 Building and using a target company list 35:14 Giving people the words to describe you (the “memory dart”) 38:59 Dormant ties: where to start networking 43:08 How to reach out and restart conversations 48:28 What to say in your first message Resources Mentioned The Fast and Easy Guide to Networking for Introverts by Greg Roche→ Greg’s Substack: The Introverted Networker → Adam Grant's Give and Take → 💡 Take Action 🔥 Subscribe for future episodes → 📖 Grab my Resume Don’ts Guide → ❌ Avoid these common job search mistakes → 🚪 Wondering if it’s time to walk away? → 💼 Work with me → 📢 Connect with Greg Roche 🌐 Website → https://gregroche.com 📬 Substack → https://gregroche.substack.com 🔗 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregroche 📲 Follow Me LinkedIn → YouTube → Facebook → TikTok → /episode/index/show/18553c0d-032e-45bd-839f-c17a8556872c/id/41154400

Episode 51: Betting on Yourself Can Land You Your Dream Job with Kenny Booth 04/28/2026

Episode 51: Betting on Yourself Can Land You Your Dream Job with Kenny Booth What happens when you stop waiting for permission and start betting on yourself? Diana sits down with Kenny Booth to explore his unconventional path into tech, entrepreneurship, and landing a role at his dream company. If you’ve ever hesitated to take a risk, this episode will challenge how you think about failure and opportunity. Kenny’s nontraditional path into tech and business intelligence Turning curiosity and side projects into career opportunities Why failure and risk-taking are essential to growth Entrepreneurship: who it’s for (and who it’s not) The difference between reasons and excuses Why pedigree matters less than impact The mindset required to bet on yourself ⏳ Timestamps 01:00 Kenny’s journey to landing his dream job at Disney 03:00 How podcasting started during the pandemic 05:30 Creating your own “paradise” through mindset shifts 08:30 Growing up with Disney and early influences 11:00 From stockbroker dreams to tech curiosity 13:00 Discovering automation and problem-solving through macros 15:30 Breaking into software engineering without a traditional path 18:00 Early entrepreneurial experiments (including childhood ventures) 23:00 Starting Code Blue and taking the first leap 25:30 Where confidence and willingness to fail comes from 30:00 Entrepreneurship: who should (and shouldn’t) pursue it 32:30 Reasons vs. excuses — a critical mindset shift 34:00 The energy required to succeed in entrepreneurship 36:00 Why pedigree doesn’t equal success 38:00 The downside of self-motivation and internal pressure 40:30 Balancing side business with corporate work 42:00 Taking risks, making pivots, and betting on yourself 💡 Take Action 🔥 Subscribe for future episodes → 📖 Grab my Resume Don’ts Guide → ❌ Avoid these common job search mistakes → 🚪 Wondering if it’s time to walk away from your job? → 💼 Work with me → 📢 Connect with Kenny Booth 🔗 LinkedIn → 📲 Follow Me On Social Media LinkedIn → YouTube → Facebook → TikTok → /episode/index/show/18553c0d-032e-45bd-839f-c17a8556872c/id/41044990

Episode 50: Gaining Confidence through Action with Angie Callen 04/21/2026

Episode 49: AI Product Leadership & the Future of Product Teams with Michael Hirsch 04/14/2026

Episode 49: AI Product Leadership & the Future of Product Teams with Michael Hirsch In this episode of Work Should Feel Good, Diana sits down with product leader and consultant Michael Hirsch to explore what real product leadership looks like, especially as AI reshapes how product teams work. They discuss the difference between product management and product leadership, why most companies fail to prepare new leaders, and how AI can free product managers from tactical work so they can focus on strategic thinking. Michael’s journey from working in his father’s business to leading product teams in tech Why the transition from product manager to product leader is so difficult The difference between product management and product leadership Common mistakes new product leaders make Why organizations rarely train leaders effectively Tactical vs strategic product work (and why most teams get it wrong) How AI can free product managers from busywork Why the best product leaders prioritize developing their teams The hidden political dynamics inside product roles ⏳ Timestamps 02:18 The story behind “Break a Pencil Consulting” 05:54 Growing up in the family business and deciding to leave 13:30 Career uncertainty, layoffs, and betting on yourself 18:59 Why Michael moved into leadership coaching 22:02 Why the transition from product manager to leader is so difficult 26:34 Product managers vs engineering managers 30:11 Why product and project management should not be the same role 33:40 The problem with how companies define product management 39:56 Strategic vs tactical work in product roles 46:00 How AI can free up time for strategic thinking 51:30 What strong product teams do differently with AI 💡 Take Action 🔥 Subscribe for future episodes → 📖 Grab my Resume Don’ts Guide → ❌ Avoid these common job search mistakes → 🚪 Wondering if it’s time to walk away? → 💼 Work with me → 📢 Connect with Michael Hirsch 🌐 Website → 🔗 LinkedIn → 📺 YouTube → 📧 Newsletter → 📲 Follow Me On Social Media LinkedIn → YouTube → Facebook → TikTok → /episode/index/show/18553c0d-032e-45bd-839f-c17a8556872c/id/40868085

Episode 48: Brain Science & Self-Care for Management with Lisa Riegel 04/07/2026

Episode 48: Brain Science & Self-Care for Management with Lisa Riegel What actually makes workplace change succeed or fail? In this episode, Diana sits down with Lisa Riegel to break down how brain science, leadership behavior, and systems thinking all play a role in creating sustainable change at work. Why most leadership advice stays too conceptual and how to make it operational The difference between outcomes vs. outputs (and why it matters for burnout) How workplace culture is shaped by actions, not stated values The 8C Commitment Framework for leading change effectively Why people resist change (and what’s actually happening in the brain) The role of identity, fear, and perceived loss in workplace resistance How to structure meetings for clarity, engagement, and better decisions The four types of conversations leaders must understand Coaching strategies based on willingness and ability Using AI and automation without losing the human element ⏳ Timestamps 01:00 Lisa’s unconventional career path and pivot into leadership and brain science 05:30 From education to leadership coaching and organizational transformation 09:45 Outcomes vs. outputs—and why leaders get this wrong 13:30 Culture, belonging, and the foundation for successful change 16:00 The 8C framework: clarity, coherence, and cadence 20:15 Why leaders struggle to translate vision into action 23:00 How people experience change differently (and why timing matters) 26:30 Structuring meetings: directives, dialogue, discussion, and data debriefs 31:30 Decision-making, consensus, and accountability in teams 36:00 Coaching through resistance: able vs. willing employees 41:30 Identity, fear, and why people resist change 46:00 AI, workplace anxiety, and the future of human skills 49:30 Practical example of improving systems and workflows 💡 Take Action 🔥 Subscribe for future episodes → 📖 Grab my Resume Don’ts Guide → ❌ Avoid these common job search mistakes → 🚪 Wondering if it’s time to walk away from your job? → 💼 Work with me → 📢 Connect with Lisa Riegel 🌐 Website → 🔗 LinkedIn → 📲 Follow Me LinkedIn → YouTube → Facebook → TikTok → /episode/index/show/18553c0d-032e-45bd-839f-c17a8556872c/id/40754595

Episode 47: Data Leadership in the Age of AI with Jennifer Brussow 03/31/2026

Episode 46: How to Job Search Right-er with Diana Alt 03/24/2026

Episode 45: Reclaiming Agency at Work with Eric Nehrlich 03/17/2026

Episode 44: The Real Life of a Recruiter with Kelli Hrivnak 03/10/2026

Episode 44: The Real Life of a Recruiter with Kelli Hrivnak What actually happens behind the scenes in recruiting? In this episode, Diana Alt sits down with Kelli Hrivnak, founder of Knak Digital, to unpack how recruiting really works from sourcing candidates to the business model behind recruiting firms. If you’ve ever wondered how recruiters evaluate candidates or why the hiring process can feel confusing, this conversation pulls back the curtain. The difference between internal recruiters and agency recruiters How recruiters are measured and how recruiting firms make money What “sourcing” actually means in modern recruiting What makes a candidate easier for recruiters to find and evaluate How mass applications and auto-apply tools are affecting hiring Signals recruiters look for that suggest someone may be open to a new role The reality of backdoor references and reputation management The controversy around reverse recruiting services ⏳ Timestamps 01:00 Kelli’s unconventional path into recruiting (restaurant management and wine sales) 05:00 Nonlinear career paths and mid-career reassessment 09:10 Internal recruiters vs. agency recruiters explained 12:00 How internal recruiters are measured (time-to-fill and sourcing metrics) 14:20 How agency recruiters make money and how recruiting fees work 18:00 Contract recruiting, markups, and how staffing firms operate 23:10 What a “full desk recruiter” is 25:40 What sourcing means and how recruiters actually find candidates 30:00 How candidates can make themselves easier to find 32:10 Why hard skills and industry keywords matter in recruiter searches 34:20 How mass applying and auto-apply tools are changing hiring 39:00 Signals recruiters use to identify candidates who may be open to change 41:20 Backdoor references: what they are and why companies use them 47:30 Reverse recruiting and why it’s controversial 52:00 Job search shortcuts vs. doing the work that actually matters 💡 Take Action 🔥 Subscribe for future episodes → 📖 Grab my Resume Don’ts Guide → ❌ Avoid these common job search mistakes → 🚪 Wondering if it’s time to walk away from your job? → 💼 Work with me → 📢 Connect with Kelli Hrivnak 🌐 Knak Digital → 🔗 LinkedIn → 📲 Follow Me LinkedIn → YouTube → Facebook → TikTok → /episode/index/show/18553c0d-032e-45bd-839f-c17a8556872c/id/40378775

Episode 43: Visibility for Senior Leaders with Bosky Mukherjee 03/03/2026

Episode 42: One Year of Work Should Feel Good with Diana Alt 02/24/2026

Episode 41: Navigating Stages of Grief After Layoff with Steve Jaffe 02/17/2026

Episode 41: Navigating Stages of Grief After Layoff with Steve Jaffe Getting laid off can feel like the rug has been pulled out from under you, but what if the real work begins after the shock fades? In this episode, Diana sits down with Steve Jaffe, author of The Layoff Journey, to talk about the often-overlooked emotional side of job loss. From surviving four layoffs to helping others process theirs, Steve shares what professionals get wrong about “bouncing back” and why grieving your job is not weakness, it’s necessary. Key Topics or Themes Steve’s career journey from advertising to author of The Layoff Journey What layoffs during the dot-com crash and post-9/11 taught him about resilience The seven stages of grief as they apply to job loss Why skipping emotional processing can hurt your job search Shame, dignity, and identity after a layoff How to manage anger and disappointment during a prolonged job search Practical self-care strategies that actually support career recovery What companies and leaders can do to handle layoffs more humanely Why “job security” is largely a myth — and what to focus on instead ⏳ Timestamps 00:00 Intro & meet Steve Jaffe 02:24 The “What Happens in Vegas” campaign story 06:09 First layoff during the dot-com crash 17:35 Multiple layoffs & career pivots 26:37 The seven stages of grief after job loss 31:20 Why emotional recovery matters before job searching 38:00 The role of shame, identity, and dignity 46:20 How leaders can handle layoffs more humanely 52:10 The hardest parts of layoffs people don’t expect 57:45 Lightning round & final advice 💡 Take action 🔥 Subscribe for future episodes → 📖 Grab my Resume Don’ts Guide → ❌ Avoid these common job search mistakes → 🚪 Wondering if it’s time to walk away? → 💼 Work with me → 📢 Connect with Steve Jaffe 🌐 Website → 🔗 LinkedIn → 📸 Instagram → 📘 Grab Steve’s book The Layoff Journey → 📲 Follow me on social media: LinkedIn → YouTube → Facebook → TikTok → Instagram → #CareerGrowth #WorkShouldFeelGood #LayoffRecovery #CareerResilience #JobLossSupport /episode/index/show/18553c0d-032e-45bd-839f-c17a8556872c/id/40134850

Episode 40: Why Working Hard Isn’t Enough to Get Promoted with Diana Alt 02/10/2026

Episode 39: Competence vs Confidence & Promotions with Sara Gallagher 02/03/2026

Episode 39: Competence vs Confidence & Promotions with Sara Gallagher What’s more valuable at work, being good at your job, or looking like you are? Diana reconnects with longtime friend and guest Sarah Gallagher, President of The Persimmon Group and creator of the popular LinkedIn newsletter Big Dumb Questions. They dive into a lively, honest conversation about why confidence often outpaces competence in career advancement and why that might not be a bad thing. They also unpack Sarah’s career journey, her sobriety story, and how she's redefining leadership on her own terms. Where the idea for Big Dumb Questions came from Confidence vs. competence at work Career growth myths and when they break Sarah’s journey from Middle Eastern Studies to PM consulting Why project managers are not product managers Navigating sobriety, leadership, and life balance What leaders actually need from their teams Creating a job instead of waiting for one ⏳ Timestamps 02:18 The origin of Big Dumb Questions 07:06 PM vs BA vs Product Manager – untangling the mess 15:00 Career lessons from real-life project experience 21:30 Sarah’s unconventional career path 30:30 From Gantt charts to consulting: how she made the leap 34:40 Becoming president… days before the pandemic 38:30 Sobriety and leadership: getting real 43:50 Why outside outlets matter when you lead 47:48 Work-from-home as a leadership strategy 49:00 Confidence vs. competence in promotions 54:00 What leaders can do to counter hiring bias 59:50 Final thoughts on creating work that fits 💡 Take action 🔥 Subscribe for future episodes → 📖 Grab my Resume Don’ts Guide → ❌ Avoid these common job search mistakes → 🚪 Wondering if it’s time to walk away? → 💼 Work with me → 📢 Connect with Sarah Gallagher 🌐 The Persimmon Group → https://www.thepersimmongroup.com 🔗 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahgallagher 📲 Follow Me LinkedIn → YouTube → Facebook → TikTok → /episode/index/show/18553c0d-032e-45bd-839f-c17a8556872c/id/39962970

Episode 38: Fake Recruiters & Resume Scams with Diana Alt 01/27/2026

Episode 37: Career Breaks for Dummies with Katrina McGhee 01/20/2026

Episode 37: Career Breaks for Dummies with Katrina McGhee Burned out or misaligned at work? Here’s how a break could change everything. What if taking a break from your career wasn’t a setback, but a strategic step forward? In this episode, Katrina McGhee, career break coach and author of Taking a Career Break for Dummies, joins Diana to explore how to plan, fund, and return from a career break with clarity and confidence. From burnout to intentional reinvention, Katrina shares powerful insights from her own 20-month break and the 200+ clients she’s helped since. If you're craving change but unsure how to make space for it, this episode is your permission slip. Katrina’s path from actuary to world traveler to career break coach How burnout, betrayal, and blossoming reveal the need for a break What a “career break” actually looks like (hint: it’s not a gap year) How to plan, fund, and protect your break Strategies for reentering the workforce confidently ⏳ Timestamps 00:00 Intro 01:22 How Katrina and Diana connected 02:31 Katrina’s journey from math major to career break expert 06:03 The misalignment that led to her 20-month break 08:30 Breaking down the “Three B’s” model: Burnout, Betrayal, and Blossom 13:40 Understanding self-betrayal and its impact 17:04 Using a break for discovery, not just recovery 20:53 Preventing career jumping vs. intentional pivots 24:37 How the job market shift has changed break dynamics 26:35 Talking about your break without sabotaging your story 30:58 What reentry actually looks like — and how long it takes 36:00 Katrina’s job search post-break (and 5 offers in 5 weeks) 40:55 Internal vs. external narratives during reentry 43:38 Common mistakes: rest guilt, reentry panic, and LinkedIn doomscrolling 💡 Take Action 🔥 Subscribe for future episodes → 📖 Grab my Resume Don’ts Guide → ❌ Avoid these common job search mistakes → 🚪 Wondering if it’s time to walk away from your job? → 💼 Work with me → 📢 Connect with Katrina McGhee 🌐 Website → 🔗 LinkedIn → 📲 Follow Me On Social Media LinkedIn → YouTube → Facebook → TikTok → Instagram → /episode/index/show/18553c0d-032e-45bd-839f-c17a8556872c/id/39796185

Work Should Feel Good with Diana Alt

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