Secrets of the Career Game
Do you want to know a secret? The corporate world is a game: one laden with cleverly hidden and unspoken rules that most employees don’t know they are playing. On this show, we help you peek behind the curtain to understand the corporate game and set yourself up for accelerate growth and progression.
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100. 8 Pieces of Mediocre Career Advice I Wish I Ignored
08/11/2025
100. 8 Pieces of Mediocre Career Advice I Wish I Ignored
“Just work hard and you’ll get promoted.” If you’ve heard this before and it still hasn’t worked out… Kendall’s here to tell you why. In this 100th episode of Secrets of the Career Game, Kendall calls BS on the most common career clichés that keep high-performers stuck and overlooked. From toxic loyalty traps to the myth of passion-driven success, this episode breaks down the 8 most mediocre pieces of advice—and replaces them with strategies that actually get you promoted, noticed, and respected. This is not a motivational pep talk. It’s your playbook for making smarter, more strategic moves inside corporate systems that were never built to reward quiet hard work. Plus: Kendall launches a Name Our Listeners contest and issues a two-week networking challenge that could literally change your career trajectory. Let’s celebrate 100 episodes by rewriting the rules. In this episode, we discuss: What’s the worst career advice you’ve ever received? Why doesn’t hard work alone get you promoted? How do you build influence without playing dirty office politics? Who should you really be networking with? When does “loyalty” become career sabotage? Don’t wait to get noticed—use this guide to make your next promotion a planned event, not a lucky break.
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99. Stop Wasting Time on Goals You Don’t Even Want — Michelle Niemeyer
08/04/2025
99. Stop Wasting Time on Goals You Don’t Even Want — Michelle Niemeyer
Most people say they're “too busy” before they’ve even checked their calendar. Michelle Niemeyer wants to change that. After burning out as a high-performing attorney (and landing in the hospital because of it), Michelle realized the problem wasn’t her productivity. It was her lifestyle. Her nervous system. Her goals. And the way she defined success. In this episode, she breaks down The Art of Bending Time, her framework that helps professionals stop spinning in circles and start building a life they want. Kendall and Michelle talk about everything from “goal clutter” to internal time sucks to why losing 5 pounds might not really be your priority (and that’s okay). This is the episode you send to every friend who keeps saying “I don’t have time” while they’re scrolling Instagram and ignoring their actual dream. In this episode, we discuss: What if your goal isn’t really your goal? How do you avoid burnout when you have no time? What are “internal time sucks” and how do you stop them? Can work-life balance exist or is integration the real solution? ⭐️Get our FREE Accomplishments Tracker: That Career Coach Want to know more about Kendal Berg, that career coach? Follow her on Instagram: Check out her courses on the website:
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98. Why You’re Not Getting Noticed on LinkedIn—And How to Fix It with Courtney Johnson
07/28/2025
98. Why You’re Not Getting Noticed on LinkedIn—And How to Fix It with Courtney Johnson
Most people aren’t lazy—they’re just scared of being seen. Kendall Berg sits down with digital strategist and Slay the Gatekeeper founder Courtney Johnson to unravel the truth about personal branding in the age of LinkedIn, TikTok, and trolls. Spoiler alert: it’s not about going viral—it’s about getting honest. Courtney breaks down the emotional blocks that keep high achievers hiding their brilliance. From troll comments to visibility shame spirals, she gives us the cheat codes to show up online without losing our voice. Whether you’re in corporate or freelance, you’ll walk away rethinking what it means to be seen, trusted, and remembered. In this episode, we discuss: What’s the simplest way to grow on LinkedIn in 2025? How do I build a personal brand without sounding fake? Should I worry about negative comments on my content? How honest should I be when posting online? Do I need a personal brand if I’m not a creator?
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97. 5 Planning Habits That Save Me Hours Every Week (And My Sanity)
07/21/2025
97. 5 Planning Habits That Save Me Hours Every Week (And My Sanity)
Kendall Berg reveals the 5 planning habits that keep her from losing it—while balancing a corporate tech role, coaching business, content creation, pageant prep, and parenting two kids. If your to-do list never ends but your energy does, these five systems will shift how you manage your time, reduce mental load, and finally build a week that works. Kendall breaks down how to simplify your goals, design a weekly routine that honors your brain, and make space for what actually matters—without burning out or dropping the ball. In this episode, we discuss: What are the 5 planning habits every working professional needs? How do you build a weekly system that saves you time and stress? What’s the best way to reduce mental load without dropping priorities? How can I balance work, family, and personal growth goals? What’s the difference between time blocking and day blocking? 👉
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95. What Is ‘Rizz’ in the Workplace? A Modern Guide to Charisma + Leadership with Milam Miller
07/14/2025
95. What Is ‘Rizz’ in the Workplace? A Modern Guide to Charisma + Leadership with Milam Miller
Berg interviews Milam Miller, the former AS Roma exec known as the real-life Ted Lasso, about the leadership superpower most people misunderstand: charisma. Milam breaks down his modern framework for connection, communication, and rizz—the kind that helps you lead across cultures, industries, and personalities. Drawing from his new book, The Charisma Craft – A Modern Leadership Guide to Enhance Your “Rizz”, he shares the six leadership archetypes you’ll want to know, plus the acronym that will help you end workplace gossip like a pro. Whether you’re a rising leader, a high performer who keeps getting passed over, or someone trying to stay relevant in an AI-powered workplace—this conversation will change the way you think about presence, persuasion, and power. 🎯 In this episode, we discuss: What is charisma in leadership—and how do you build it authentically? What does “rizz” actually look like in the workplace? Can AI teach you how to be charismatic—or just what to say? How do you stop gossip without making it awkward? What are the six archetypes in The Charisma Craft? ⭐️Get our FREE Accomplishments Tracker: That Career Coach Want to know more about Kendal Berg, that career coach? Follow her on Instagram: Check out her courses on the website: Build out the tools you need to navigate the corporate game: — During his 15-year career in Sports & Entertainment, Milam Miller negotiated more than $100MM in commercial revenue. What was once a private mantra – “Be Confident and Kind” – is now a public movement to positively transform the way we lead in the future of work. Following his love for professional training and human potential, Milam launched a sales reskilling & upskilling practice called, Be Confident & Kind–a movement to build a human-powered future of work. His mission is to help leaders reduce internal team conflicts and increase external sales. He is advancing this mission through the release of his first book, The Charisma Craft–A Modern Leadership Guide to Enhance Your “Rizz” Get Milam’s book The Charisma Craft: https://www.amazon.com/Charisma-Craft-Modern-Leadership-Enhance/dp/B0FF4YRM2F/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0 Website: LinkedIn: Instagram:
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96. How to Respond to Rude Comments at Work (Without Getting Emotional)
07/07/2025
96. How to Respond to Rude Comments at Work (Without Getting Emotional)
What do you do when someone makes a condescending remark in front of your team—or worse, during a board meeting? In this episode, career coach Kendall Berg breaks down the exact language to use when you're belittled, talked over, or insulted at work. This non-confrontational tactic forces aggressors to repeat their words and publicly own their behavior—without you losing your composure or professional credibility. Using a real-life story from her early career, Kendall reveals how a VP’s inappropriate comment triggered swift organizational response—and how a different reaction could’ve changed everything. You’ll walk away with practical language to disarm toxic coworkers, shift the power in the room, and maintain your dignity in high-pressure corporate environments. Whether you’re dealing with credit thieves, snide remarks, or subtle digs, this video gives you a tactical play that actually works. ⭐️Get our FREE Accomplishments Tracker: That Career Coach Want to know more about Kendal Berg, that career coach? Follow her on Instagram: Check out her courses on the website: Build out the tools you need to navigate the corporate game: —
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94. Why Your Personal Brand Matters More Than Your Résumé Hilary Hartling
06/30/2025
94. Why Your Personal Brand Matters More Than Your Résumé Hilary Hartling
Hilary Hartling doesn’t believe in branding fluff—and after 15 years at Disney working on global campaigns for Pixar, Marvel, and DreamWorks, she’s earned the right to say so. In this episode, Kendall Berg sits down with Hilary to unpack what a personal brand really is (hint: it’s not your color palette). From corporate burnout to building an executive brand agency, Hilary’s story is a masterclass in career reinvention, thought leadership, and waking up excited. She breaks down the actual steps to brand clarity—from strengths mapping to using human design—and offers sharp advice for executives, entrepreneurs, and high performers stuck in a career that no longer fits. Whether you’re building a business or simply want more visibility at work, Hilary’s strategy-driven, slightly rebellious take on branding is the wake-up call you didn’t know you needed. 🔍 In this episode, we discuss: What is a personal brand and how do I build one? How do I know when it’s time to leave my job? What are the first steps to start a business after burnout? How can executives build a thought leadership brand? Why do most entrepreneurs waste time on the wrong branding? ⭐️ Get our FREE Accomplishments Tracker: That Career Coach Want to know more about Kendal Berg, that career coach? Follow her on Instagram: Check out her courses on the website: Hilary Hartling is a Brand & Messaging Strategist who helps entrepreneurs turn their brilliance into captivating brands that connect and convert. Known for blending intuitive insight with strategic clarity, she’s also the Chief Brand Officer at Growth Mode, a thought leadership agency for executives and founders. Before launching her business, Hilary spent 15 years leading integrated marketing campaigns for global entertainment brands film releases at Disney, Pixar & Marvel. Website: Instagram: LinkedIn:
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93. 4 Types of Toxic Bosses and How to Handle Them
06/23/2025
93. 4 Types of Toxic Bosses and How to Handle Them
Toxic bosses are more common than you think—and Kendall Berg isn’t afraid to name names and break down the real strategies you need to survive them. From micromanagers who hover over every move to credit-stealers who take your wins and make them theirs, this episode of Secrets of the Career Game reveals what actually works when your manager is the biggest obstacle to your career growth. Kendall explains why emotional distance is the key to survival, how to proactively manage up, and what to do when your boss starts playing games with your reputation. Whether you're dealing with power-hungry leadership or just an insecure manager who’s in over their head, this episode gives you the insider blueprint for managing up, protecting your peace, and reclaiming your progress. In this episode, we discuss: What are the 4 toxic boss types and how do you spot them? How do you deal with a micromanager without losing your mind? What’s the best way to protect yourself from a credit-stealing manager? Can you really get promoted under a defensive boss? What should you say when your boss makes a derogatory comment? ⭐️Get our FREE Accomplishments Tracker: That Career Coach Want to know more about Kendal Berg, that career coach? Follow her on Instagram: Check out her courses on the website: Build out the tools you need to navigate the corporate game: —
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92. Why Staying at One Job Too Long Might be Financial Suicide with Amanda Wolfe
06/16/2025
92. Why Staying at One Job Too Long Might be Financial Suicide with Amanda Wolfe
Amanda Wolfe built a 300K+ community from her bedroom—but that’s not where her story starts. Growing up in poverty, with parents addicted to drugs, Amanda moved 12 times before sixth grade. She became the first person in her family to graduate college, only to discover that a salary alone wasn’t enough to build financial security. In this candid conversation, Amanda reveals how staying at her first job for 12 years became her biggest financial mistake, how she finally doubled her income, and why most people are financially stuck—even with “good jobs.” Kendall and Amanda break down why financial literacy is the real ABCs of adulthood, and how anyone can start building true financial freedom—without waiting for the perfect moment. They unpack the toxic comfort zones keeping people stuck, why obsessing over specific financial goals changes everything, and how to prepare financially before making a career pivot. Plus, Amanda shares the unfiltered truth about side hustles, social media income myths, and why most influencers don’t make real money from followers alone. In this episode, we discuss: What should you do if you feel financially behind in your 30s? How much should you really save in your emergency fund? Is it worth staying at a job just for comfort? How to overcome fear when changing jobs or negotiating salary? Do side hustles and social media actually make real money? ⭐️Get our FREE Accomplishments Tracker: That Career Coach Want to know more about Kendal Berg, that career coach? Follow her on Instagram: Check out her courses on the website: Build out the tools you need to navigate the corporate game: — Amanda Wolfe I’m a self-taught financial educator who has built a community of over 300,000+ people to increase financial literacy for all. I was born into extreme poverty, and despite it all, I’ve reached a point in my 30s where I could stop saving any money and still retire comfortably in my early 40s.I have partnered with multi-million dollar corporations, created multiple money management courses, am a regular contributor to BiggerPockets Money podcast, and founded SHEWOLFEOFWALLSTREET, a community where I help thousands of friends, families, and strangers create debt payoff strategies, budgets and invest so that they can achieve financial freedom. Website: and our .
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91. 10 Phrases to Stop Saying at Work (If You Want to Be Taken Seriously)
06/09/2025
91. 10 Phrases to Stop Saying at Work (If You Want to Be Taken Seriously)
Your words at work matter more than you think. If you’ve ever been told to "work on your communication" or felt unsure how to respond to vague feedback about being "too assertive"—this episode is for you. I’m breaking down 10 common workplace phrases that can quietly sabotage your professional image—and giving you smarter alternatives that build influence, show leadership, and help you play the corporate game strategically. We’re not here for passive-aggressive HR speak. We’re here to sound like leaders. In this episode, we discuss: What are the most common workplace phrases that hurt your career? How can you replace passive or defensive language with power language? What should Gen Z avoid saying to managers and teammates? How do you set boundaries without sounding difficult? Why is “how you say it” more important than “what you say”? ⭐️Get our FREE Accomplishments Tracker: That Career Coach Want to know more about Kendal Berg, that career coach? Follow her on Instagram: Check out her courses on the website: Build out the tools you need to navigate the corporate game: —
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90. How to Say No at Work (Without Burning Bridges or Burning Out) with Amy Green Smith
06/02/2025
90. How to Say No at Work (Without Burning Bridges or Burning Out) with Amy Green Smith
Kendall Berg pulls no punches in this conversation with certified life coach and communication expert Amy Green Smith. From the outside, high achievers seem like they have it all together—but beneath the promotions and packed calendars is a brewing identity crisis. Amy unpacks why burnout hits the most accomplished professionals the hardest—and how tying your self-worth to your performance is the fastest way to lose yourself. People-pleasing isn’t just a “nice girl” habit. According to Amy, it’s a survival strategy many of us learned as kids—and it’s still running the show in the boardroom. Together, Kendall and Amy break down how to recognize those self-sabotaging behaviors, communicate assertively without coming off like a jerk, and set boundaries that actually stick. Plus, Amy offers her go-to scripts and practical tips to help listeners reclaim their bandwidth and emotional space. In this episode, we discuss: How do I stop tying my identity to my job? What are signs that I’m a people-pleaser at work? How can I be assertive without being aggressive? What’s the right way to set boundaries in the workplace? How can high performers avoid burnout? ⭐️Get our FREE Accomplishments Tracker: That Career Coach Want to know more about Kendal Berg, that career coach? Follow her on Instagram: Check out her courses on the website: Build out the tools you need to navigate the corporate game: — Amy Green Smith is a certified and credentialed life coach and hypnotherapist, masterful speaker, and personal empowerment expert. Amy uses her roles as coach, writer, podcaster, and speaker to move individuals to a place of radical personal empowerment and self-worth. With acute focus on helping people “find their voice”, she is highly sought after for her uncommon style of irreverence, wisdom, and humor and has been a featured expert in Inspired Coach Magazine and on Fox 5 San Diego. website: Instagram: Linkedin:
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89. The Butterfly Effect of Career Change: Small Shifts, Big Results
05/26/2025
89. The Butterfly Effect of Career Change: Small Shifts, Big Results
The smallest move in your career could change everything. That’s the power of the butterfly effect—and it’s already at work whether you realize it or not. In this episode of Secrets of the Career Game, Kendall Berg unpacks how one tiny shift (a certification, a networking event, even a pause after a layoff) can ripple into massive career transformation. Drawing from real client stories and her own experience, Kendall challenges the panic-pivot and demotion route so many professionals take when facing burnout or job loss. Instead, she outlines the career strategy that actually works in 2025—and it has nothing to do with getting another degree or sending 50 applications a day. This is your sign to stop waiting for permission and start building momentum. The butterfly effect is already happening—make sure it’s working in your favor. In this episode, we discuss: Why doesn’t stepping down the corporate ladder fix burnout? How do you pivot careers after a layoff or toxic job? What’s the real ROI of an MBA in today’s market? How can I network effectively (without cold LinkedIn DMs)? ⭐️Get our FREE Accomplishments Tracker: That Career Coach Want to know more about Kendal Berg, that career coach? Follow her on Instagram: Check out her courses on the website: Build out the tools you need to navigate the corporate game: —
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88. Secrets of the Career Game: The Career Advice No One Tells You
05/19/2025
88. Secrets of the Career Game: The Career Advice No One Tells You
Kendall Berg doesn’t just coach careers—she rewrites the rules of corporate success. At her Tattered Cover book signing and live Q&A, she breaks down the unwritten rules no one teaches you: what leaders really say behind closed doors, how promotions actually happen, and why your job isn’t responsible for your growth—you are. With humor, vulnerability, and hard-won experience, Kendall shares the behind-the-scenes moments that shaped her new book Secrets of the Career Game. From mispronouncing “hierarchical” her entire career to being stuck at the same level for 6 years before earning 5 promotions in a row, this episode is equal parts masterclass and memoir. Whether you're wondering how to communicate your unique value, what’s keeping you stuck, or how to stop being emotionally wrecked by work—this is your wake-up call to treat your career like the business it is. 📚 Secrets of the Career Game is available now on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and everywhere books are sold. In this episode, we discuss: What are the biggest mistakes to avoid if you want to get promoted? How do I position myself for career growth without burning out? What does it really mean to be the CEO of your career? How can I stand out in performance reviews or job interviews? Why does workplace gossip sabotage high performers?
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Play the Corporate Game or Get Played (Secrets of the Career Game #6)
05/13/2025
Play the Corporate Game or Get Played (Secrets of the Career Game #6)
The game is real—and most people are losing. In this final secret of Secrets of the Career Game, Kendall Berg breaks down the ultimate truth of corporate life: if you don’t understand how leadership shapes culture, you will keep getting blindsided. The real culture isn’t in the handbook—it’s in your manager’s behavior. This is the sixth and final episode in our special podcast mini-series. And the book? It’s officially out now. 🎧 Stream this final secret and pick up your copy of Secrets of the Career Game—available wherever books are sold. 📌 In this episode, we discuss: What determines company culture? How does leadership impact team dynamics? Why is your hiring manager more important than the company? What’s the danger of taking a job when you don’t vibe with the manager? Why is cultural alignment the most overlooked part of the interview?
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87. From Customer to CEO: How Natasha Cornstein Transformed Blushington During a Crisis
05/12/2025
87. From Customer to CEO: How Natasha Cornstein Transformed Blushington During a Crisis
Natasha Cornstein didn’t set out to become a CEO—but when opportunity knocked, she was ready with a curious mind, a humble heart, and a killer red lip. In this episode, Kendall Berg sits down with the powerhouse behind Blushington to unpack how Natasha went from skeptic customer to transformational CEO of a brand redefining beauty for all. With zero experience in the beauty industry and no prior CEO role, Natasha reveals how she prepared for leadership by reading voraciously, staying radically open to feedback, and rejecting the idea of transactional networking. Her philosophy? “Your next hello can be your future.” From navigating a pandemic pivot to launching a franchise model centered on inclusivity, Natasha breaks down what bold-yet-introspective leadership looks like—and why most women underestimate the power of franchising. Whether you’re climbing the ladder, switching industries, or building from scratch, Natasha’s story is a reminder that resilience, curiosity, and relationships matter more than a perfect résumé. In this episode, we discuss: How can I transition into a leadership role with no industry experience? What’s the best way to network without feeling fake? How do I know when to pivot my business model? What does servant leadership really look like in practice? How can women get started in franchising? ⭐️Get our FREE Accomplishments Tracker: That Career Coach Want to know more about Kendal Berg, that career coach? Follow her on Instagram: Check out her courses on the website: Build out the tools you need to navigate the corporate game: — Learn More About Natasha
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Leadership Isn’t Enough (Secrets of the Career Game #5)
05/06/2025
Leadership Isn’t Enough (Secrets of the Career Game #5)
Here’s the truth: managing and leading are not the same. And if you’re only doing one—you’re not getting promoted. In Secret #5 of Secrets of the Career Game, Kendall Berg breaks down the critical difference between management and leadership, and why so many professionals get stuck in middle management because they’ve mastered task execution but never learned how to create vision. Or vice versa. If you’ve ever wondered why you’re not getting tapped for bigger roles, this episode might be the reason. 🎧 Listen to this fifth installment of the 6-part mini-series leading up to the launch of Secrets of the Career Game—dropping May 13. 📘 Pre-order the book and email your receipt to [email protected] to unlock bonus resources, live Q&As, and Slack access. 📌 In this episode, we discuss: What’s the difference between managing and leading? Why do people get stuck in middle management? How do I show leadership if I’m not in a leadership role? What does it take to move from manager to director? Why do some managers never get promoted? ⭐️Get our FREE Accomplishments Tracker: That Career Coach Want to know more about Kendal Berg, that career coach? Follow her on Instagram: Check out her courses on the website: Build out the tools you need to navigate the corporate game: —
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86. This Is Why You're Burned Out at Work (And What I Did About It)
05/05/2025
86. This Is Why You're Burned Out at Work (And What I Did About It)
Burnout is everywhere—and I get why. We’ve wrapped our entire identity around our job titles, performance reviews, and LinkedIn headlines. I’ve been there. In this episode, I’m breaking down why so many of us are teetering on the edge of burnout and how I’ve learned (the hard way) to separate who I am from what I do. This isn’t your average career pep talk. I’m sharing how hobbies—yes, actual non-monetized hobbies—helped me reclaim my identity, prevent emotional exhaustion, and show up more powerfully at work and in life. From pageantry to paint-by-numbers to running a business on the side, I talk about why your post-5pm life matters just as much as your 9-to-5. Whether you're deep in the "lazy girl job" spiral or wondering how to pivot out of career-induced chaos, this one’s for you. 📚 In this episode, we discuss: What are signs your job has become your entire identity? How do I stop comparing my career to influencers online? Can hobbies actually help you get promoted? Why do high-achievers burn out faster? What are some good hobbies for people with high-stress jobs?
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Your Opinion Isn’t the Problem (Secrets of the Career Game #4)
04/29/2025
Your Opinion Isn’t the Problem (Secrets of the Career Game #4)
This might be the most misunderstood feedback in the workplace. You’re not too direct. You’re not too opinionated. You’re just communicating disagreement the wrong way. In Secret #4 of Secrets of the Career Game, Kendall Berg unpacks the career-limiting communication habits that hold people back from promotions, leadership roles, and real influence. If you’ve ever been told to “work on your tone” or “be more collaborative”—this one’s for you. 🎧 Listen to this fourth episode in our 6-part mini-series leading up to the book launch on May 13. 📘 Pre-order the book now and email your receipt to [email protected] for exclusive access to a private Slack group, bonus tools, and live Q&As. 📌 In this episode, we discuss: Why is how you disagree more important than your opinion? What do people mean by “work on your communication”? How do I give feedback without sounding combative? What’s the best way to disagree with a senior leader? ⭐️Get our FREE Accomplishments Tracker: That Career Coach Want to know more about Kendal Berg, that career coach? Follow her on Instagram: Check out her courses on the website: Build out the tools you need to navigate the corporate game: —
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85. STOP Applying to Jobs You’re NOT Qualified For | Farah Sharghi
04/28/2025
85. STOP Applying to Jobs You’re NOT Qualified For | Farah Sharghi
Kendall Berg sits down with viral career coach and former Google recruiter Farah Sharghi, and the conversation is a corporate culture reality check. From bad résumés to bad advice, Farah calls out what most job seekers are doing wrong—and what actually works if you're trying to stand out in today’s messy job market. With firsthand experience at companies like TikTok, Uber, Lyft, and The New York Times, Farah doesn’t hold back on the pitfalls of “spray-and-pray” job applications, inflated job descriptions, and the jealousy that cost her a corporate gig. She drops hard truths on everything from how AI has wrecked the hiring process to why most people think they’re qualified when they’re not. (Spoiler: if you don’t speak Portuguese, don’t apply for that role that requires it. Looking at you.) The conversation also touches on the real rules of the workplace—why HR isn’t your therapist, why your LinkedIn is your brand, and why networking shouldn’t only happen when you’re jobless. Oh, and there's a very real callout to anyone who thinks being “too honest” at work is a strength. In this episode, we discuss: What are ghost jobs and why do companies post them? How can I tell if I’m actually qualified for a job? What’s the biggest mistake job seekers make with AI-generated résumés? Why doesn’t HR support employees the way we expect? How can I build a personal brand that attracts job offers? ⭐️Get our FREE Accomplishments Tracker: That Career Coach Want to know more about Kendal Berg, that career coach? Follow her on Instagram: Check out her courses on the website: Build out the tools you need to navigate the corporate game: — Connect with Farah : Work With Me: Website: Podcast Production by
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Without a Network, You Will Fail (Secrets of the Career Game #3)
04/22/2025
Without a Network, You Will Fail (Secrets of the Career Game #3)
This one stings—but it’s the truth. Without a network, you will fail. You can be a high performer, great at your job, and still get passed over—because no one outside your manager even knows who you are. That’s the career cliff Kendall tackles in Secret #3 of Secrets of the Career Game. In this episode, Kendall shares the harsh realities of performance reviews, cross-calibrations, and how internal “heat maps” determine who gets promoted—and who doesn’t. You’ll also learn how to build meaningful relationships even if you work remotely, are introverted, or hate small talk. 🎧 Stream this third secret from the 6-part mini-series leading up to the launch of Secrets of the Career Game—out May 13. 📘 Pre-order now and email your receipt to [email protected] to unlock a private Slack group, bonus tools, and live Q&As with Kendall. ⭐️Get our FREE Accomplishments Tracker: That Career Coach Want to know more about Kendal Berg, that career coach? Follow her on Instagram: Check out her courses on the website: Build out the tools you need to navigate the corporate game: —
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84. How to Outsmart a Micromanaging, Credit-Stealing, Gossip-Loving Boss
04/21/2025
84. How to Outsmart a Micromanaging, Credit-Stealing, Gossip-Loving Boss
Some bosses are great. Others… force you into a game you never asked to play. In this episode, Kendall Berg unpacks the real rules of surviving the workplace when you're dealing with toxic leadership—micromanagers, credit thieves, and internal gossip machines. Whether you're trying to manage up, navigate internal politics, or just stay sane in a dysfunctional team, Kendall gives you the scripts, mindset shifts, and tactical moves to stay in the game without selling your soul. Learn how to stay visible without looking desperate, build your "network tree" to future-proof your next move, and why internal transfers might just be your secret career weapon. Because sometimes the issue isn’t you—it’s the broken org chart above you. 💡 Plus: Kendall shares how to create a regular update tracker, shut down gossip without drama, and leverage peers to escape your boss’s political tornado. In this episode, we discuss: What should I do if my boss micromanages me? How do I get credit for my work when my boss steals it? How do I manage toxic office politics without quitting? Should I leave or try for an internal transfer? What are signs my boss is sabotaging my career? Pre-order Secrets of the Career Game (out May 13) to access exclusive resources, a private Slack group, and live Q&A sessions with Kendall. 👉 and send your receipt to [email protected] to join the community. ⭐️Get our FREE Accomplishments Tracker: That Career Coach Want to know more about Kendal Berg, that career coach? Follow her on Instagram: Check out her courses on the website: Build out the tools you need to navigate the corporate game: —
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Your Skills Aren’t Enough Without This (Secrets of the Career Game #2)
04/15/2025
Your Skills Aren’t Enough Without This (Secrets of the Career Game #2)
Most people think skills are what get them promoted. But if those skills don’t match what the company needs or values—they’re not worth much. That’s the hard truth behind Secret #2 of Secrets of the Career Game. Kendall unpacks why skill alignment is the real key to professional growth. She explains how even high performers can fail when their talents don’t line up with team culture or leadership expectations. This minisode is a must-listen for anyone applying to jobs, switching roles, or wondering why their current role just doesn’t “click.” 🎧 Listen to this special bonus episode in our 6-part mini-series leading up to the release of Secrets of the Career Game — launching May 13. 📘 Pre-order the book now and send your receipt to [email protected] to unlock exclusive resources, live Q&As, and a private Slack group. 📌 In this episode, we discuss: Why do high performers sometimes struggle at work? What is skill alignment and why does it matter? How do I know if a company values my strengths? What questions should I ask in interviews to assess alignment? How can I identify the kind of leader I thrive under? ⭐️Get our FREE Accomplishments Tracker: That Career Coach Want to know more about Kendal Berg, that career coach? Follow her on Instagram: Check out her courses on the website: Build out the tools you need to navigate the corporate game: —
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83. Why Women Aren’t Advancing to the C-Suite Quickly with Tracy Newell
04/14/2025
83. Why Women Aren’t Advancing to the C-Suite Quickly with Tracy Newell
Pre-order Secrets of the Career Game (out May 13) to access exclusive resources, a private Slack group, and live Q&A sessions with Kendall. 👉 and send your receipt to [email protected] to join the community. ⭐️Get our FREE Accomplishments Tracker: That Career Coach Want to know more about Kendal Berg, that career coach? Follow her on Instagram: Check out her courses on the website: MEET TRACEY NEWELL Specializing in accelerating go-to-market teams and top line revenue growth, Tracey Newell serves on the board of five high growth software companies, Sailpoint, Druva, Highspot, DataRobot, and Deepwatch. Tracey also serves as an advisor for Blackrock Long Term Private Capital and Spring Coast Capital Partners. Book: : Website: LinkedIn:
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You’re Not Just an Employee—You’re a Business (Secrets of the Career Game #1)
04/08/2025
You’re Not Just an Employee—You’re a Business (Secrets of the Career Game #1)
Kendall kicks off the six-part mini-series with a career truth most people avoid: your job is not your job—it’s your business. If you’re waiting around for your boss to hand you a promotion or finally notice your hard work, this is your wake-up call. Kendall explains why treating your career like a business is the first mindset shift you need to break free from being an "order taker" and start being seen as a valuable player. It's not about completing tasks—it's about driving impact. Pre-order Secrets of the Career Game (out May 13) to access exclusive resources, a private Slack group, and live Q&A sessions with Kendall. 👉 and send your receipt to [email protected] to join the community. 📌 In this episode, we discuss: How can I start treating my career like a business? Why do people get stuck in “order taker” roles? What does impact-driven communication look like? How do I pitch my value at work? What mindset do I need to actually get promoted? ⭐️Get our FREE Accomplishments Tracker: That Career Coach Want to know more about Kendal Berg, that career coach? Follow her on Instagram: Check out her courses on the website:
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82. Think Like an Executive: High-Level Thinking & Strategic Presence
04/07/2025
82. Think Like an Executive: High-Level Thinking & Strategic Presence
Not every urgent request deserves immediate attention. In this episode, Kendall Berg breaks down the difference between urgency and importance—a crucial distinction that can save your career from constant stress and burnout. Using a four-quadrant framework, Kendall explains how to prioritize effectively while still delivering results that matter. High-level thinking isn’t just a buzzword—it’s the key to career progression. Kendall shares how professionals can shift from task execution to strategic influence, making their work more valuable to executives. Learn how to prepare for meetings like a pro, communicate with impact, and avoid common pitfalls like defensiveness, overloading information, and ineffective multitasking. 🔥 In this episode, we discuss: What’s the real difference between urgency and importance? (And how to stop treating everything as a crisis) How can high-level thinking make you indispensable to executives? Why do so many professionals struggle with strategic communication? What’s the secret to asking better questions in meetings? How can automation be a game-changer for scaling work without burnout? 📌 Preorder the book: ⭐️Get our FREE Accomplishments Tracker: That Career Coach Want to know more about Kendal Berg, that career coach? Follow her on Instagram: Check out her courses on the website: Build out the tools you need to navigate the corporate game: —
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81. Why You’re Not Getting Hired (and What to Do Instead) with Ior Oliveros
03/31/2025
81. Why You’re Not Getting Hired (and What to Do Instead) with Ior Oliveros
Kendall Berg dives into why the hiring process is fundamentally broken—with first-time founder Ior Oliveiros offering a bold fix. As the founder of Acasa IO, Ior is on a mission to dismantle the outdated, resume-obsessed systems that keep qualified candidates (especially immigrants) locked out of meaningful work. Kendall and Ior talk about how hiring still takes 4-6 weeks for every role, why cultural fit and transparency are make-or-break, and how Acasa IO is betting on application cards and matching algorithms to change everything. Ior shares the honest reality of shifting from corporate to startup life—including the emotional rollercoaster of launching a company with no capital, the chaos of early team dynamics, and why building culture is harder than writing code. He explains how Acasa IO eliminates traditional resumes, empowers users to schedule their own interviews, and adds a public review system for accountability on both sides. Think LinkedIn meets Tinder—with a dash of radical honesty. In this episode, we discuss: Why is the hiring process so slow and inefficient? What’s broken about resumes—and what should replace them? How do you maintain team culture as a first-time founder? What’s the best way to validate your startup idea before launching? How can small companies compete with big brands when hiring?
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80. The Mental Load Myth: Why Productivity Hacks Are Failing Career-Driven Moms with Dr. Whitney Casares
03/24/2025
80. The Mental Load Myth: Why Productivity Hacks Are Failing Career-Driven Moms with Dr. Whitney Casares
Working moms are told they can do it all, but no one tells them how—until now. Dr. Whitney Casares, a board-certified pediatrician and author of Doing It All, joins Kendall Berg to dismantle the myth of balance. She breaks down why working moms aren’t just juggling careers and kids—they're carrying an invisible mental load that’s setting them up for burnout. Whitney explains why perspective shift must come before strategy and shares her four-category framework to help moms reclaim their time without guilt. She unpacks the corporate penalties of chronic stress, why workplace culture still hasn’t caught up, and how successful moms are making smarter career choices. Whether you're a high-achieving mom or someone trying to support one, this episode changes the way you see success. 🔍 In this episode, we discuss: Why do working moms feel so overwhelmed? (The hidden mental load no one talks about) How does stress affect your career growth? (The burnout cycle that’s keeping you stuck) What’s the secret to balancing career and motherhood? (Spoiler: It’s not balance—it’s strategy) How can you set boundaries at work and home? (Without the guilt trip) What workplace policies actually help working parents? (And why corporate America is failing them) 📌 Preorder the book: ⭐️Get our FREE Accomplishments Tracker: That Career Coach Want to know more about Kendal Berg, that career coach? Follow her on Instagram: Check out her courses on the website: Build out the tools you need to navigate the corporate game: — Dr. Whitney Casares, MD, MPH, FAAP, is a board-certified pediatrician, author, CEO and Founder of Modern Mommy Doc who has been featured as an expert in The New York Times, Forbes, Parents, Fortune, NBC News, ABC News, TODAY, and more. Her expertise is grounded in maternal-child health and ensuring that moms know they aren't broken; our system is. She is the author of three books: The Working Mom Blueprint: Winning at Parenting Without Losing Yourself, The New Baby Blueprint: Caring for You and Your Little One, and Doing it All: Stop Over-Functioning and Become the Mom and Person You're Meant to Be. 📢 Connect with Dr. Whitney Casares: 🌐 Website: 📸 Instagram: 🎧 Podcast: The Modern Mommy Doc Podcast
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79. 10 Powerful Tips to Build Executive Presence and Command Any Room
03/17/2025
79. 10 Powerful Tips to Build Executive Presence and Command Any Room
Most people think executive presence is about speaking the loudest, wearing a power suit, or throwing around corporate jargon. Kendall Berg is here to tell you that’s all wrong. Executive presence is about influence. The best leaders don’t dominate conversations—they know how to ask the right questions, build strong relationships, and stay composed under pressure. In this episode of Secrets of the Career Game, Kendall breaks down the three core pillars of executive presence and reveals practical strategies to help you develop leadership skills that actually matter. She shares why talking less can make you more powerful, how to handle high-pressure situations like a pro, and the fastest way to destroy your executive presence (spoiler: it’s being too detailed). If you’ve ever felt like you’re not “naturally” a leader, this episode will change your mind. In this episode, we discuss: 🔹 What are the three pillars of executive presence, and how do they help you lead effectively? 🔹 Why do top executives ask more questions instead of giving all the answers? 🔹 How can you stay calm and composed when things go sideways at work? 🔹 What’s the #1 mistake people make that kills their executive presence? 📌 Preorder the book: ⭐️Get our FREE Accomplishments Tracker: That Career Coach Want to know more about Kendal Berg, that career coach? Follow her on Instagram: Check out her courses on the website: Build out the tools you need to navigate the corporate game: — Podcast Produced by
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78. Turn ADHD Challenges into Career Wins: The Strategies You Need with Skye Waterson
03/10/2025
78. Turn ADHD Challenges into Career Wins: The Strategies You Need with Skye Waterson
Kendall Berg and ADHD coach Skye Waterson break down the hidden challenges of navigating corporate life with ADHD. From performance reviews that spark anxiety to the struggle of prioritizing tasks when everything feels urgent, they reveal practical strategies to turn ADHD traits into career superpowers. Skye shares real-world hacks that help professionals boost productivity, manage executive dysfunction, and advocate for the support they actually need. ADHD isn’t a career roadblock—it’s a different playbook. Learn how to master time blindness, rewire your motivation system, and harness creative problem-solving for professional success. In this episode, we discuss: How can professionals with ADHD overcome time blindness and improve task management? What are the best strategies for advocating ADHD accommodations at work? How does dopamine impact productivity, and how can ADHD professionals boost motivation? What are the top executive functioning skills that drive career success? How can ADHD employees communicate effectively with neurotypical colleagues? ⭐️Get our FREE Accomplishments Tracker: That Career Coach Want to know more about Kendal Berg, that career coach? Follow her on Instagram: Check out her courses on the website: Build out the tools you need to navigate the corporate game: —
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77. The Real Reason Companies Want You Back in the Office
03/03/2025
77. The Real Reason Companies Want You Back in the Office
Some employees are thriving in remote work, while others are struggling. But is returning to the office really the solution? Kendall Berg unpacks the corporate push for Return to Office (RTO) and breaks down the real reasons why companies are calling employees back—spoiler: it’s not just about collaboration. Kendall shares hard truths about workplace performance, leadership blind spots, and the impact of remote work on career growth. Whether you love working from home or dread the thought of in-person meetings, this episode will make you rethink your stance on RTO. Plus, Kendall reveals what companies aren’t telling you about office mandates, including the hidden financial incentives and power dynamics driving the return-to-office movement. Discover how the shift back to in-office work affects promotions, productivity, and job satisfaction—and what you can do to stay ahead in your career, no matter where you work. In this episode, we discuss: Why do companies really want employees back in the office? Does returning to the office actually improve performance? How does RTO impact promotions and career growth? What mistakes are managers making when overseeing remote teams? Is hybrid work the best compromise, or just another corporate headache?
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