Embrace the Squiggle (Kristine Thody & Colleen Delvecchio )

Did you think that your career would be like climbing a ladder? One rung after the other, the next step right in front of you? Well, so did we. 

But guess what? That is not how most careers work any more. They mostly look like a squiggle, starting in one point and navigating through many different roles and fields to get to the other point. 

We started this podcast to help other people navigate their own career squiggles by talking to inspiring women on their unique careers with humility and honesty. Each week you can expect a new episode, hosted by Colleen DelVecchio and Kristine Thody, talking with someone about their career squiggle. So, we figured no better way to start the show than by having a duo episode with just our hosts!

In our first episode we delve into conversation with our hosts on their own personal career squiggles, how they met, and why they decided to launch this podcast. Listen to this episode for their insights on career hurdles and how they go about career decision making.
 
Colleen DelVecchio is a leadership coach and keynote speaker. As a certified Gallup Strengths coach, Colleen helps individuals share their gifts with their workplace. With over two decades of experience in women's leadership, alumni engagement, organizational change, strategic management, career counseling, and staff development, Colleen guides teams to maximize each person’s ability to increase impact, performance, and job satisfaction.
You can connect with Colleen at https://www.maxady.com/  and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/comara/ .

Kristine Thody is a certified coach. She worked for nearly a decade at UBC Sauder School of Business, where she supported 44,000+ graduates with global careers by spearheading meaningful coaching services and programs. Now, Kristine runs her own coaching practice, where she creates moments of genuine engagement and connection for clients, organizations, and, yes, schools.
You can connect with Kristine at https://www.kristinethody.com/ and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody/ .

Please subscribe to the podcast Embrace the Squiggle and listen every week for a new career adventure!

Are you afraid to post on TikTok or Instagram because you’ve never felt comfortable as the face of something? Well our guest, Lauren Moore, had that fear, posted anyways, and now has a big platform that turned her passion for books into a successful book retreat business. 

This week on Embrace The Squiggle, Colleen and Kristine talk with Lauren Moore about all things branding, TikTok, and embracing your strengths. Lauren comes to us as she worked with Colleen and Kristine on their own personal branding projects. She is an expert into distilling who you are into digital form, helping hundreds of people reach their audiences through their websites and social media channels. 

While Lauren for so long had been in the passenger seat of online presence, she decided to make a go of it herself, she’s known online as Book Huddle. She started posting to TikTok about a subject she knew she would never grow tired of… books! Given her years of expertise in the field, and her own passion for the subject, her videos gained a lot of traction. Especially one about having a weekend book retreat, a place for people to come together for a cozy weekend to read and talk about books that they love. And guess what? Lauren made that a reality. 

She is now a multi-passionate brand expert and book retreat entrepreneur, here to share her journey with us. Listen on for an episode full of online knowledge and inspiration for your future TikTok journey. 

You can find Lauren at https://bookhuddle.com/ and on TikTok as @bookhuddle and Instagram as @letsbookhuddle or on Linkedin at www.linkedin.com/in/thelaurenmoore/

You can connect with Colleen at https://www.maxady.com/  

and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/comara/ 

You can connect with Krsitine at https://www.kristinethody.com/ 

and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody/ 

Subscribe to Embrace the Squiggle and listen every week for a new career adventure!

How does one go from being an ice cream scooping expert at Friendly’s to working in Public Relations? Our guest this week is Melissa Welch, the proud owner of a very squiggly career, only expected to get even squigglier! 

In this episode Colleen and Kristine catch up with Melissa to discuss how empathy is critical to a blossoming career. Melissa shares how she is a firm believer in jumping at the opportunities that are presented to you, no matter how unexpected. And they discuss how to turn past experience into skills for your new role. 

Melissa is currently the senior creative director for Bay Path University. She is the believer of the importance of the in-between, every day moments in life, Melissa fills as many of them as she can with her sweet and sassy eight year old, Ryan, and her 13 year old rescue pup Sawyer. Forever a lover of the written word and beautiful branding, Melissa is a storyteller at heart, and has spent her career helping companies put their best foot- and their best face forward.

You can find Melissa on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissaewelch/ or on Instagram @printtherapy 

You can connect with Colleen at https://www.maxady.com/  

and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/comara/ 

You can connect with Krsitine at https://www.kristinethody.com/ 

and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody/ 

Subscribe to the podcast Embrace the Squiggle and listen every week for a new career adventure!

Did you ever wonder how a host of The View ended up on TV? The answer will take us on a squiggly career journey with Sara Haines, who you may recognize from her time spent as a host on The View and other network programs (and her Instagram!).

This week on Embrace the Squiggle, Colleen and Krsitine have the pleasure of discussing career squiggles and much more with Sara Haines. Sara Haines is a co-host of ABC’s Emmy® Award-winning daytime talk show “The View” and the host of ABC’s primetime game show “The Chase.”  Haines previously co-hosted ABC News’ “GMA 3: Strahan, Sara & Keke.”

Prior to her association with ABC News in 2013, Haines was part of the fourth hour of NBC’s “Today” alongside Kathie Lee Gifford and Hoda Kotb, a position she held from 2009 to 2013. In 2008, she began online reporting as host of the program’s entertainment video blog, “Backstage Pass,” interviewing countless celebrity entertainers, actors and musicians.

Haines graduated from Smith College in Northampton, Massachusetts, where she received a Bachelor of Arts in government. She is a native of Newton, Iowa. She currently resides in New Jersey with her husband, Max, and three young children, Alec, Sandra and Caleb.

We are so grateful to have talked to Sara about her impressive career squiggle and have so much to learn from her. 

You can find Sara on Instagram @SaraHaines or on The View. 

You can connect with Colleen at https://www.maxady.com/  

and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/comara/ 

You can connect with Krsitine at https://www.kristinethody.com/ 

and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody/ 

Subscribe to the podcast Embrace the Squiggle and listen every week for a new career adventure!

Have you ever felt like your life is in a constant lull and you just don’t know what to do to make a big shift? Well so did our guest Jill until she finally bit the bullet and made a BIG investment in her personal development by becoming a certified Life Coach. 

In this week’s episode of Embrace the Squiggle, Colleen and Kristine sit down with Life Coach Jill Rodowicz (she/her) to discuss her squiggly journey starting from aspiring surgeon. 

Jill is a general life coach who mainly focuses on helping feminist women rid their romantic lives of anxiety. She was officially certified by The Life Coach School in July 2023. One unique way in which she approaches her practice is by considering the way in which women are socialized under the patriarchy. Jill believes that having a full understanding of how our environment/socialization and biology affect our brains is key in treating her clients' and getting to the root of problems—rather than merely treating symptoms. This involves a re-training of an individual's current mindset to a mindset that serves a client's individualistic wants, needs and future goals.

You can book a free consultation with Jill at http://Calendly.com/BWYAC if you are looking for decision making support and think Jill may be the coach for you.

Jill’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/becomewhatyouarecoaching/

You can connect with Colleen at https://www.maxady.com/  

and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/comara/ 

You can connect with Krsitine at https://www.kristinethody.com/ 

and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody/ 

Subscribe to the podcast Embrace the Squiggle and listen every week for a new career adventure!

If you’ve had a baby you may know the long journey after giving birth to heal. Our guest this week, Jen Oliver, is an expert on the post-partum journey and has a lot of lessons to give us on how to approach the post-birth journey. 

This week on Embrace the Squiggle, Kristine and Colleen speak with Jen Oliver, author of the international bestselling book, The Love FitMama Way: Transforming the Core of Motherhood, and is the creator and host of the FitMama Podcast (The Work IN to your Workout). 

Kristine has known Jen for over 20 years and they recount Jen’s squiggly journey from General Manager of a 24 hour gym to personal trainer to her current role as an author and coach. Jen has so many nuggets of wisdom to share, especially for our mama listeners. 

Jen inspires, educates and motivates women around the globe to begin all things with self-love. Through awareness of emotional fitness, self-care and sensual self-love, she draws on science and the mind-body data to support women in being their own biggest ally in business, relationships and life. What she is most passionate about is spreading the message that if you love the body and life you have, you will have the body and life you love. 

Jen shares this message beautifully in her TEDx talk, How to Love Yourself to the Core: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZQNk7KVU_6A

You can connect with Colleen at https://www.maxady.com/  

and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/comara/ 

You can connect with Krsitine at https://www.kristinethody.com/ 

and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody/ 

Subscribe to the podcast Embrace the Squiggle and listen every week for a new career adventure!

Did you ever not apply for a job or make a career leap because you were worried what other people would think? If so, this episode is all about making those big career squiggles no matter your fears of judgement. 

This week on Embrace the Squiggle Colleen and Kristine talk with Ali Grovue to talk about pursuing your squiggly career no matter your personal fears of embarrassment or looking silly. 

Ali is an expert in organizational behaviour and purpose-driven strategy, working with leaders across to drive performance and change through people. She draws on her degree in human resources and organizational behaviour and her experience as the Chief Operating Officer of a clean-tech company, the Executive Director of a non-profit association, an Officer in the Royal Canadian Navy, and a business consultant and advisor to help her clients create transformational organizational change. 

You can find Ali on Linkedin at www.linkedin.com/in/aligrovue

You can connect with Colleen at www.maxady.com

and on Linkedin at www.linkedin.com/in/comara

You can connect with Krsitine at https://www.kristinethody.com

and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody

Subscribe to the podcast Embrace the Squiggle and listen every week for a new career adventure!

Have you ever felt stuck in your career and unsure of your purpose? Our guest this week Charlotte Blair was right there with you until she made a change. 

This week on Embrace the Squiggle Colleen and Kristine talke with Charlotte Blair, coach and author. 

Charlotte Blair is someone who believes in living each day to the fullest, aiming for a ten out of ten type of day, every day. Working towards what you want, and knowing that obstacles can be navigated around or pushed out of the way.

As an International Coaching Federation (ICF) Professional Certified Coach (PCC) and one of Australia’s most experienced Gallup Accredited Strengths Coaches, she loves helping people find their passion and purpose, and play to their strengths.

As the founder of The Strengths Partners she works with individuals, teams and organisations across the world to help them discover and use their strengths to meet their goals.

Charlotte is also known as the coach’s coach. She shares her experience and passion with other coaches those thinking of making the career shift as she did.

She went from a corporate nine to five, and all the trappings that come with it, to discovering her unique talents and strengths and now loving work again. 

Links:

Book - Career Unstuck

Charlotte’s LinkedIn

Have you been bitten by the entrepreneur bug? Well our guest Dawn Cordeiro certainly has and she has plenty of advice for how to recover! 

And by recover… we mean embrace it and see where it can take you!

This week on Embrace the Squiggle Colleen and Kristine speak to Dawn all about her journey as a serial entrepreneur. Dawn is a Publicity, Marketing, Social Media, and Crowdfunding Consultant for Small Businesses and Authors. She has been featured at local Facebook and Google summits for her successful branding and storytelling. 

For the past ten years, she has been part coach, cheerleader, and counselor guiding her clients through the intricate process of identifying messages and marketing approaches that resonate authentically with their businesses and brand voices. Her approach is grounded in helping clients find comfort and authenticity in their marketing endeavors.

She is also the Co-Owner of The Holyoke Hummus Company, a Food Truck and Catering Company Serving Western Massachusetts.

Dawn on Linkedin

DMC Consulting 

www.holyokehummus.com

You can connect with Colleen at https://www.maxady.com/  

and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/comara/ 

You can connect with Krsitine at https://www.kristinethody.com/ 

and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody/ 

Subscribe to the podcast Embrace the Squiggle and listen every week for a new career adventure!

Have you experienced some tumult and loss prior and struggled to get back to yourself? Our guest Danielle Cobo has and she has come guidance to share with you. 

This week on Embrace the Squiggle Colleen and Kristine talk with Danielle Cobo about her squiggly career and how finding her grit has gotten her through it all. Danielle is a lifelong business woman who started her first business at just seven years old selling mistletoe for Christmas. More recently, she has been a leader in the medical sales field for 20 years and now she helps medical sales professionals to attract their dream jobs and make bigger sales. 

Danielle is Keynote Speaker, Author, and Podcaster, among many titles. She helps teams & individuals to develop the grit, resilience, and courage necessary to thrive in a complex and changing market. 

Find Danielle on Linkedin here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellecobo/ 

or at https://www.daniellecobo.com/ 

You can connect with Colleen at https://www.maxady.com/  

and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/comara/ 

You can connect with Krsitine at https://www.kristinethody.com/ 

and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody/ 

Subscribe to the podcast Embrace the Squiggle and listen every week for a new career adventure!

Are you a strategic career decision maker who wants to always optimize and get to the next step on the ladder? Does that feel like a lot of pressure? Well it isn’t the only way. 

This week on Embrace the Squiggle Colleen and Kristine speak with Norma-Jean Rocky who has led a very squiggly career. Norma Jean started her career in a somewhat controversial move by playing around with lots of different options. So often people, especially at the beginning of their career, think they must optimize every move and can’t spend a while trying different things to see what you like. 

Norma-Jean has worked in consulting at McKinsey and then transitioned into entrepreneurship and started her own baby food company. She learned a lot from starting her own company including the importance of a strong business model and understanding her own strengths better. Then she pivoted to working for WestJet, a Canadian budget airline, in HR where she really found more alignment with her strengths. She has gotten a Masters in Data Science and worked at Salesforce and Aritzia. Today she is working in consulting in Vancouver where she above all values her colleagues and the space given to experiment and fail and try again. 

You can connect with Norma-Jean on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/njrocky/ 

You can connect with Colleen at https://www.maxady.com/  

and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/comara/ 

You can connect with Krsitine at https://www.kristinethody.com/ 

and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody/ 

Subscribe to the podcast Embrace the Squiggle and listen every week for a new career adventure!

Have you ever felt like your body is telling you to do something before your mind accepts it? Maybe you are getting sick and sleeping a lot? It may be time for a career squiggle.

This week on Embrace the Squiggle Colleen and Kristine talk to Christina Bryan about her squiggly career and how she has grown stronger with each shift. Christina has gone through three major career shifts, two failed businesses, and learned so much from each transition. She worked in event planning, real estate ventures, and coaching. 

In 2015, Christina co-founded an innovative real estate platform dedicated to transforming New York's vacant spaces into captivating event venues. As the founder of Voila Event Solutions, she leveraged her expertise to empower brands and artists, enabling them to enhance profitability and strategically position themselves within their industries.

‌For the past three years, Christina has served as the Chief of Staff at Common Impact, driving initiatives focused on fostering systemic change and providing resources to BIPOC-led nonprofits. This journey has deepened her commitment to coaching, where her mission is to empower women to embrace their wisdom and choices, whether they are aspiring leaders or seasoned entrepreneurs.

As a natural connector of people and ideas, Christina's personal brand embodies innovation, audacity, and boldness. She is dedicated to leaving a legacy as someone who dared to dream, believed unwaveringly, and fearlessly pursued her aspirations.

Connect with Christina on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinarbryan/

Connect with Christina on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meetchristinabryan/

You can connect with Colleen at https://www.maxady.com/  

and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/comara/ 

You can connect with Krsitine at https://www.kristinethody.com/ 

and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody/ 

Subscribe to the podcast Embrace the Squiggle and listen every week for a new career adventure!

What happens when you’re a part of a profession that ends early due to injury, age, or getting cut from a team? What do you do after it? 

The case we are talking about this week on Embrace the Squiggle is what professional athletes do after they retire, but it can apply to anyone. Colleen and Kristine are talking with LaShea Davis all about her squiggly career that brought her to working at the NFL helping former professional athletes transition from playing to working in another role or profession. 

LaShea Davis-Williams is an experienced Social Work practitioner with an extensive
background working with diverse populations including children, families, college
students, communities, and former professional athletes.

LaShea currently serves as a Senior Program Manager, with The Trust (powered by the
NFLPA), where she works with former NFL players, supporting them through their
transition post NFL career and living their purpose beyond football.

LaShea is also an Integrative Life Coach who specializes in helping women achieve their personal and professional goals. Through her coaching and consulting business she offers a wide range of programs and services - from individual coaching to business coaching and public speaking.

Connect with LaShea Davis-Williams on Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/lasheadw/ 

You can connect with Colleen at https://www.maxady.com/  

and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/comara/ 

You can connect with Krsitine at https://www.kristinethody.com/ 

and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody/ 

Subscribe to the podcast Embrace the Squiggle and listen every week for a new career adventure!

Have you wanted to merge your passions with your career but aren't sure how to make the leap? This episode covers how Leslie leaped from her comfortable full-time job as a nurse into the business of Disney! 

This week on Embrace the Squiggle Colleen and Kristine, speak with Leslie Lowry who you may know from her business and podcast, Addicted to the Mouse. 

She started her career as a pediatric nurse and got her masters and became a nursing instructor. It was during this time that Leslie took her family to Walt Disney World in Orlando, FL for the first time. Seeing her two small sons' faces light up during that week, Leslie knew her true calling was to help as many families as she could make those same magical memories.

Leslie became a part-time Travel Agent Specializing in Disney Destinations in 2015 and hasn't looked back. In 2020, after the world began reopening from the pandemic, Leslie and her husband Dan decided to open their own Travel Agency and share their passion for planning memorable vacations with as many families as possible. They have a team of professional travel advisors that all contribute to a wonderful supportive culture, where they collaborate on new ways to "make magic." They co-own Fantastical Vacations, a concierge travel agency, specializing in Disney Destinations

 Her podcast, Addicted to the Mouse, which she and her husband Dan began in 2017. And you can watch their adventures on their YouTube channel of the same name. They publish two podcasts and two videos per week and love every minute of it.

Links: 

You can find Leslie’s Disney resources at https://addictedtothemouse.com/ 

https://www.instagram.com/addictedtothemouse/

https://www.instagram.com/fantasticalvacations/

Fantastical Vacations - Disney, Universal, Cruise Lines

You can connect with Colleen at https://www.maxady.com/  

and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/comara/ 

You can connect with Krsitine at https://www.kristinethody.com/ 

and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody/ 

Subscribe to the podcast Embrace the Squiggle and listen every week for a new career adventure!

Would you prioritize a four day work week in picking your next career move? 

This week on Embrace the Squiggle Colleen and Kristine chat with Sive O’Neill, an expert career squiggler who has prioritized flexibility and family friendliness in her career moves. Sive is a Vice President of Marketing at Tulip where she not only leads the marketing team, but enjoys a four day work week. 

Sive is a theater performer-turned marketer, with career squiggles that led her to some pretty cool jobs, like when she worked for the Vancouver Winter Olympics, a number of non profits, and big corporate marketing roles. She is now the VP of Marketing for Tulip, a retail technology company that works with iconic brands like Michael Kors, Jimmy Choo and Saks Fifth Avenue. 

In this episode Kristine and Colleen tackle how you can  or cannot be involved in the hiring process of a superior. Sive shares how she has navigated corporate life with motherhood and her frustrations at the unrealistic separation of the two. 

Connect with Sive on Linkedín https://www.linkedin.com/in/sive-o-neill-7bbb4b10/?originalSubdomain=ca  

You can connect with Colleen at https://www.maxady.com/  

and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/comara/ 

You can connect with Krsitine at https://www.kristinethody.com/ 

and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody/ 

Subscribe to the podcast Embrace the Squiggle and listen every week for a new career adventure!

Are you looking to change careers, but have no idea what you might want to do next? Design Your Next Squiggle is for you! Get more information on what to expect and sign up for our squiggly course here!

This week on Embrace the Squiggle Colleen and Kristine speak with Jinny Lang whose squiggly career has taken her from America’s Got Talent to Pearl Harbor! Jinny is an LA-based project manager with over 10 years of experience in media and entertainment. She is currently working in ad sales at NBCUniversal and very involved with their Veterans Network. She is also a U.S. Air Force Reserve public affairs officer and has led camera teams covering missions all over the world including a deployment to the Horn of Africa.

On this episode we talk about how joining the military can be a great way to learn new skills that apply to a career outside of the military. Jinny shares how she decided to join and the different options available for career professionals. She shares how she has continued to learn new skills outside of work and how her interests have changed over the course of her career.

You can connect with Jinny on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jinnylang/ 

You can connect with Colleen at https://www.maxady.com/  

and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/comara/ 

You can connect with Krsitine at https://www.kristinethody.com/ 

and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody/ 

Subscribe to the podcast Embrace the Squiggle and listen every week for a new career adventure!

Maybe you have dealt with mental illness? Or you have a colleague that has? Either way, knowing how to best support them through it in the best way is critical to leadership and teamwork in your organization. 

This week on Embrace the Squiggle Colleen and Kristine speak with Josie White for a truly courageous and authentic conversation about struggling with mental illness, hospitalization, and with re-entering the workforce. If you’ve ever taken a leave from work for your own illness, you may know how difficult that transition can be. And if you are working on a team with someone in a similar situation, Josie shares her insights into helping them effectively. 

In the episode they ask the difficult questions about how much do you share with your colleagues after mental illness hospitalization? And how does being honest about your mental illness impact your workplace? 

Josie White is the Director of Development at South Valley Services. With a proven track record in fundraising and grant writing, Josie, a Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE), has secured grants from government, foundation, and corporate donors, and boosted donor retention. Pursuing a Master's in Nonprofit Management & Philanthropy from Bay Path University, she aims to leverage her education and experience to positively impact those in need.

You can connect with Josie at https://www.linkedin.com/in/josie-grace-white/  

You can connect with Colleen at https://www.maxady.com/  

and on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/comara/ 

You can connect with Kristine at https://www.kristinethody.com/ 

and on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody/ 

Subscribe to the podcast Embrace the Squiggle and listen every week for a new career adventure!

Your career shouldn’t be a straight line journey from one point to another, risks are meant to be taken! 

This week on Embrace the Squiggle, Colleen and Kristine speak with Jess Menna about her squiggly career and the lessons she’s learned along the way. They get into why taking risks should be a part of your career and how to know when the risk is worth taking. 

Dr. Jess Menna has extensive experience spanning diverse industries, including client services, logistics, manufacturing, supply chain, software development, life sciences, and data exchange. Currently serving as the Senior Director of Data Integration and Operations at HealthVerity, she navigates the intersection of software implementation and data within a uniquely deidentified ecosystem. Before joining HealthVerity, she dedicated a decade to consulting with Dassault Systèmes and Accenture where she focused on leveraging technology and process enhancements to boost organizational efficiency.

‌Jess has a spirited daughter, Julia, who imparts as many valuable lessons as she receives. While Jess dedicates herself to the field of HealthTech, her family embodies a team of true healthcare responders and heroes on the front line. Dawn, her mother, has been a nurse for over 40 years; Anthony, her brother, recently earned the distinction of Philadelphia Firefighter of the Year for his heroic actions; and, Joseph, her supportive husband, attends as a clinical pharmacist. Jess draws daily inspiration from witnessing their incredible commitment to helping others

Check out Innovation Women: https://innovationwomen.com/ 

Connect with Dr. Jess Menna at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jess-menna-bruchesky/ 

You can connect with Colleen at https://www.maxady.com/  

and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/comara/ 

You can connect with Krsitine at https://www.kristinethody.com/ 

and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody/ 

Subscribe to the podcast Embrace the Squiggle and listen every week for a new career adventure!

This week on Embrace the Squiggle Colleen and Kristine speak with Lesli about her squiggly career that has taken her across the country and pivoted across many fields. 

Lesli Ann Mie Agcaoili, a lifelong learner, retired from the automotive industry last year and is enrolled in trade school where she is working towards an esthetician license. She spent most of her career in product development in automotive, tech, fashion as a designer and engineer, and as an elementary school educator. She has traveled globally while working for iconic companies such as Tesla, Ford Motor Company and BlackBerry, with extensive work in Mexico and Asia. She is committed to helping develop opportunities for others and enjoys connecting ideas and people. Lesli sits on the Alumni Board of Governors for the Ross School of Business and is an active volunteer for Smith College. When she is not “geeking” out over cars, or falling off her skateboard, Lesli Ann enjoys fashion and makeup artistry, helping clients amplify their personal brand.

Connect with Lesli at https://www.linkedin.com/in/lesliagcaoili/ 

You can connect with Colleen at https://www.maxady.com/  

and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/comara/ 

You can connect with Krsitine at https://www.kristinethody.com/ 

and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody/ 

Subscribe to the podcast Embrace the Squiggle and listen every week for a new career adventure!

Have you ever been denied a vacation request? Did it bother you enough to pursue a new job? 

This week on Embrace the Squiggle Colleen and Kristine get into your questions about career squiggles and their advice on how to approach values differences with your organization. 

Some topics covered in this episode include leaving a position because they denied a vacation request and how to find a role that has the same values as you. How to get promoted in your organization and how to know when your organization is holding back your progress. Colleen and Kristine discuss some issues their coaching clients have faced in their career squiggles. 

This is a special episode without a guest so make sure to listen and get Kristine and Colleen’s knowledge and tips for how to find your squiggle!

You can connect with Colleen at https://www.maxady.com/  

and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/comara/ 

You can connect with Kristine at https://www.kristinethody.com/ 

and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody/ 

Subscribe to the podcast Embrace the Squiggle and listen every week for a new career adventure!

Spot a gap in your company that you can fill with your knowledge and skills? What's stopping you from creating that role for yourself! 

This week on Embrace the Squiggle Colleen and Kristine welcome Wendy Sutowski to discuss her squiggly career in hospitality. They dive into transferable skills, getting what you need out of a job, and articulating your strengths. Also, Taylor Swift and The Torture Poets Department may come up! 

Wendy has 25+ years of crazy experience in hospitality.  She worships at the altar of superior customer experience and product delivery.  Her passion is for coaching, mentoring and developing folks who have similar obsessions. Wendy holds a bachelor’s in Hospitality Management and maintains the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) designation. In her free time (wait, what’s that?) she enjoys Netflix n’ Chill and overly ambitious home improvement projects.  She lives in suburban Philadelphia with her husband, college-age son and a cat who thinks she’s a dog.

Reach out to Wendy! https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendysutowski/ 

You can connect with Colleen at https://www.maxady.com/  

and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/comara/ 

You can connect with Krsitine at https://www.kristinethody.com/ 

and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody/ 

Subscribe to the podcast Embrace the Squiggle and listen every week for a new career adventure!

Can your colleagues find you crying in the bathroom when you receive any feedback at work? It’s not uncommon, but let’s figure out how you can step out of the negative emotions and use feedback for the positive! 

This week on Embrace the Squiggle Colleen and Kristine speak with Lori Schoenhard about how to take calculated risk in your career and taking feedback well. They get into how to decide that a career path you went to school for and spent years pursuing, actually isn’t the right fit after all. Lori shares how she navigated career changes and how feedback has helped her career progression 

Lori Schoenhard, PMP, is a project management leadership professional with two decades of experience leading PMOs and cross-functional global teams. Her expertise spans global cloud transformations, managing mergers and acquisitions, overseeing business unit operations, directing digital strategy and client implementations, and spearheading change management and process improvement initiatives for Fortune 500 companies to SMBs. Lori is the Founder and Principal of Athena Project Consulting, offering program and operations services, as well as project management talent development. Lori resides in Marion, IA, with her husband and daughter.

Check out Athena Project Consulting for project manager and scrum master consulting, coaching, and training services for organizations and individuals.

Connect with Lori on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorischoenhard/ 

You can connect with Colleen at www.maxady.com

and on Linkedin at www.linkedin.com/in/comara

You can connect with Krsitine at https://www.kristinethody.com

and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody

Subscribe to the podcast Embrace the Squiggle and listen every week for a new career adventure!

This week on Embrace the Squiggle, Colleen and Kristine sit down with the multi-talented Lori Murphy, a purpose-driven executive and former professional studio singer. Lori shares her inspiring journey from singing at weddings and jingles for commercials to becoming a recognized leader in client management and corporate partnerships.

Discover how Lori's parents encouraged her to pursue her passions over practicality, setting the stage for her diverse and fulfilling career. Lori opens up about her experiences adjusting to industry changes, the significance of Clifton StrengthsFinders in her professional life, and how her background in music continues to influence her corporate endeavors.

Tune in to hear Lori's insights on blending creativity with corporate success, and get inspired by her commitment to animal rights and adopting senior dogs. Whether you're navigating your own squiggly career path or supporting a loved one on theirs, this episode is packed with valuable advice and heartwarming stories.

Listen to Lori and connect with her: https://www.lorimurphysings.com/ 

You can connect with Colleen at www.maxady.com and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/comara.

You can connect with Kristine at kristinethody.com and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/kristinethody.

Subscribe to the podcast Embrace the Squiggle and listen every week for a new career adventure!

This week on Embrace the Squiggle Colleen and Kristine speak with Melissa Vining about her career squiggles from professional musician, to masters student, to career coach. 

This week on Embrace the Squiggle Colleen and Kristine are diving into all of the resume do’s and don'ts! 

If you have found yourself endlessly applying for jobs with little to no progress, let’s make sure your resume is in tip-top shape! And if you aren’t even looking for a new job, we should always be updating our resumes and keeping track of job accomplishments and new skills. 

Connect with Colleen at www.maxady.com and on Linkedin at www.linkedin.com/in/comara

Connect with Krsitine at https://www.kristinethody.com and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody

Subscribe to the podcast Embrace the Squiggle and listen every week for a new career adventure!

This episode was produced by Lili Paxton https://www.linkedin.com/in/lili-paxton/ 

This week on Embrace the Squiggle, Colleen and Kristine speak with Ashli Stempel about boosting your confidence and how career squiggles have led her to success. 

In the episode they discuss owning your strengths, expertise and building a team so that everyone shines. Ashli shared how being a woman in business has impacted her work method and how her career has squiggled. Ashli and Kristine share how grief has impacted their lives and what they value. 

Ashli Stempel is a content strategist for MassMutual, and carries more than 15 years’ experience driving communications, change management, and business development strategy across finance, tech, higher education, government, and nonprofit organizations. Above all else, her passion lies in developing others, and sharing the many lessons she’s learned along the way.

HOW TO CONNECT: 

Connect with Ashli at https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashlistempel/ 

Connect with Colleen at www.maxady.com and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/comara.

Connect with Kristine at kristinethody.com and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/kristinethody.

Subscribe to the podcast Embrace the Squiggle and listen every week for a new career adventure!

This week on Embrace the Squiggle, Colleen and Kristine speak to Ashanta Coleman about how she has overcome adversity and used it to empower other women. They discuss how being a mom has impacted her career, how COVID changed work forever, and how a life changing event or loss can still lead to some positive change. 

Ashanta Coleman is a dedicated professional with a passion for fostering intentional connections to best serve Qwerkz’s clients and staff. With extensive experience in talent acquisition and HR operations, she has been instrumental in building high-performing teams. In her free time, she enjoys reading in her hammock and spending quality moments with her kids and fur babies.

Where to find more about Ashanta:

http://www.qwerkz.com

https://linktr.ee/ashantaantoinette

https://www.instagram.com/glowgirlglowbrand/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashanta-coleman-10718a236/

You can connect with Colleen at www.maxady.com

and on Linkedin at www.linkedin.com/in/comara

You can connect with Krsitine at https://www.kristinethody.com

and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody

Subscribe to the podcast Embrace the Squiggle and listen every week for a new career adventure!

This week on Embrace the Squiggle, Colleen speaks with Joy Huber about how a cancer diagnosis changed her life squiggle, why she loves solo travel, and moving towards instead of away. 

Colleen and Kristine discuss the pervasive issue of meeting overload among their clients. They share insights on time management, the importance of prioritizing meetings, and the liberating power of saying 'no.' 

Find Joy on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/joyhuber/ 

and Facebook and Instagram 

You can connect with Colleen at www.maxady.com and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/comara.

You can connect with Kristine at kristinethody.com and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/kristinethody.

Subscribe to the podcast Embrace the Squiggle and listen every week for a new career adventure!

This week on Embrace the Squiggle Colleen and Kristine speak with Rachel Lerner-Ley about how being interesting and authentic landed her the job she wanted! We dig into who you shouldn’t conform in interviews and how your unique perspectives and experiences are what will land you the right gig for you. 

Rachel Lerner-Ley is the Merkin Prize & New Directions Scholars Program Manager at the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard. Prior to the Broad, she worked in the artistic department at Cleveland Play House (recipient of the 2015 Regional Theatre Tony Award), first as the artistic associate and then as the literary manager and resident dramaturg. Other theatre credits include: Williamstown Theatre Festival, The Civilians, Actors Theatre of Louisville, Barrington Stage Company, WildWind Performance Lab at Texas Tech University, and Girl Be Head. Over the course of her theatre career, she read & reported on hundreds of new play submissions and dramaturged 30+ productions & workshops ranging from world premieres to musicals and classics. She is a graduate of Smith College and a member of the LMDA (Literary Managers and Dramaturgs of the Americas).

Connect with Rachel at https://www.linkedin.com/in/rlernerley/ 

Connect with Colleen at www.maxady.com

and on Linkedin at www.linkedin.com/in/comara

Connect with Krsitine at https://www.kristinethody.com

and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody

Subscribe to the podcast Embrace the Squiggle and listen every week for a new career adventure!

In this episode of Embrace the Squiggle, Colleen and Kristine explore the alarming rise of job scams and share accounts of LinkedIn scams that have fooled people. They discuss telltale signs of scams and how to avoid them.

They dig into proactive job search strategies, emphasizing networking over blind applications, leveraging LinkedIn effectively, and the significance of emotional intelligence in career development. Colleen and Kristine also underscore the value of understanding personal and managerial strengths and needs through tools like CliftonStrengths. This episode is a deep dive into safeguarding your job search and building a resilient professional network.

Connect with Colleen at www.maxady.com and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/comara !

Connect with Kristine at kristinethody.com and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/kristinethody !

Subscribe to the podcast Embrace the Squiggle and listen every week for a new career adventure!

This week on Embrace the Squiggle, Colleen and Kristine sit down with Ena Lebel to explore her multifaceted career journey from aspiring women’s rights lawyer to becoming a corporate lawyer and ultimately transitioning into nonprofit leadership. Ena shares deep insights into how her experiences in big law and consulting shaped her current role as the Executive Director of the Pittsburgh Legal Diversity and Inclusion Coalition. Learn about the importance of values-driven career choices, the power of a strong network, and the evolving nature of professional seasons. Whether you're at the start of your career or contemplating a change, this episode offers invaluable advice and inspiration.

Ena has the firm belief that we can inspire, empower, and connect people to change the world. As the Executive Director of the Pittsburgh Legal Diversity & Inclusion Coalition, a non-profit organization committed to increasing the diversity of legal talent in Pittsburgh, she is a champion of social justice, equality, and inclusion. 

Connect with Ena: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ena-lebel-1441481b/

Check out the Pittsburgh Legal Diversity and Inclusion Coalition: https://pghlegaldiversity.org/

You can connect with Colleen at www.maxady.com

and on Linkedin at www.linkedin.com/in/comara

You can connect with Krsitine at https://www.kristinethody.com

and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody

Subscribe to the podcast Embrace the Squiggle and listen every week for a new career adventure!

This week on Embrace the Squiggle, Colleen and Kristine welcome back the remarkable Lesli Ann Agcaoili for an insightful discussion on career transformation as Leslie shares her experiences on various prestigious boards, including Smith College and the University of Michigan. Lesli dives into the intricacies of nominating committees, the importance of community and volunteering, and the role of alumni engagements in professional growth. The conversation also explores themes of authenticity, leadership in male-dominated spaces, and the importance of finding alignment with your values in both professional and volunteer roles. Tune in for invaluable advice on navigating career challenges and fostering genuine connections.

Connect with Lesli: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lesliagcaoili/

Connect with Colleen at www.maxady.com and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/comara.

Connect with Kristine at kristinethody.com and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/kristinethody.

Subscribe to the podcast Embrace the Squiggle and listen every week for a new career adventure!

This podcast was produced by Lili Paxton

In this episode of Embrace the Squiggle, hosts Colleen and Kristine engage with Kendra Porter, an image consultant and wardrobe stylist. Kendra shares her journey from childhood career dreams to her current role in fashion and personal branding. She discusses how clothing and style play a crucial role in personal branding, the importance of tailoring and fit, and how one's wardrobe can reflect their professional and personal growth. The conversation covers practical advice for aligning your wardrobe with your personal brand and the psychological impact of what you wear. Kendra also touches on her multifaceted career, including teaching at FIT and styling for NBC Sports.

Honor Your Style: https://honoryourstyle.com/

Connect with Kendra on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kendraporter

Follow Kendra on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/honoryourstyle/

Check out her TedX talk: https://youtu.be/dvSq4Qv-JSg

Connect and learn more from Colleen at www.maxady.com and on Linkedin at www.linkedin.com/in/comara
Connect and learn more from  Kristine at https://www.kristinethody.com and on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody
Subscribe to the podcast Embrace the Squiggle and listen every week for a new career adventure!

And please leave us a rating on your podcast app, it really helps us out.

This episode was produced by Lili Paxton

Colleen and Kristine dive into the squiggly career journey of Nancy Dussault Smith. With over 20 years in sales and marketing of high technology products, Nancy unfolds her transformative path from aspiring to work for the FBI, to leasing cars, and eventually spearheading the launch of the world-famous Roomba at iRobot. Listen in as Nancy shares insights on career pivots, the importance of self-awareness and feedback in leadership, developing talent, and her latest leap into entrepreneurship with her new marketing consultancy.

Are you looking to change careers, but have no idea what you might want to do next? Design Your Next Squiggle is for you!
 Colleen and Kristine will guide you through their unique and successful process to clearly define what your next squiggle could be.

Includes:

• four live 90-minute sessions (September 12, 19, 26 and October 3 from 7pm - 8:30pm ET)
• one 45-minute career coaching call with either Colleen or Kristine (your choice!)
• Gallup CliftonStrengths assessment
• Customized handouts

Get tickets here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/design-your-next-squiggle-sept-12-oct-3-tickets-904789849797?aff=erelexpmlt

Connect with Nancy: linkedin.com/in/nancy-dussault-smith-9878b02

Connect and learn more from Colleen at www.maxady.com and on Linkedin at www.linkedin.com/in/comara

Connect and learn more from Kristine at https://www.kristinethody.com and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody

Subscribe to the podcast Embrace the Squiggle and listen every week for a new career adventure!

And please leave us a rating on your podcast app, it really helps us out.

This week on Embrace the Squiggle, Colleen and Kristine dive into an insightful conversation with Betty Rhodes, founder and CEO of She Speaks Coaching & Consulting.

Betty shares her journey from law school to nearly two decades in public service, and eventually into the world of wine as a Certified Sommelier. They discuss the importance of clear communication from leaders in organizations, navigating career pivots, and blending seemingly disparate interests into a cohesive professional path.

Tune in for actionable tips on using critical thinking, the value of strategic planning, and finding your North Star in both career and life.

Are you looking to change careers, but have no idea what you might want to do next? Design Your Next Squiggle is for you! Get tickets here:

Design Your Next Squiggle - Sept 12 - Oct. 3

Colleen and Kristine will guide you through their unique and successful process to clearly define what your next squiggle could be.

Includes:

• four live 90-minute sessions (September 12, 19, 26 and October 3 from 7pm - 8:30pm ET)
• one 45-minute career coaching call with either Colleen or Kristine (your choice!)
• Gallup CliftonStrengths assessment
• Customized handouts

Connect with Betty: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bettyrhoadesspeaks/

on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bettyrhoadesspeaks/

Connect and learn more from Colleen at www.maxady.com and on Linkedin at www.linkedin.com/in/comara
Connect and learn more from Kristine at https://www.kristinethody.com and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody
Subscribe to the podcast Embrace the Squiggle and listen every week for a new career adventure!

And please leave us a rating on your podcast app, it really helps us out.

In this episode of Embrace the Squiggle, Colleen and Kristine delve into the concept of unlimited PTO, its implications for employees, and why it often benefits the company more than the employee. They offer essential advice on how to navigate job offers, especially with unlimited PTO clauses, and stress the importance of asking clarifying questions. The conversation shifts to the significance of trust within teams, how managers can cultivate it, and the common pitfalls that lead to distrust and micromanagement. They wrap up by discussing the importance of knowing personal motivators and needs for optimal performance, both in professional and personal contexts.

Are you looking to change careers, but have no idea what you might want to do next? Design Your Next Squiggle is for you! Get tickets here:

Design Your Next Squiggle - Sept 12 - Oct. 3

Colleen and Kristine will guide you through their unique and successful process to clearly define what your next squiggle could be.

Includes:

• four live 90-minute sessions (September 12, 19, 26 and October 3 from 7pm - 8:30pm ET)
• one 45-minute career coaching call with either Colleen or Kristine (your choice!)
• Gallup CliftonStrengths assessment
• Customized handouts

Connect and learn more from Colleen at www.maxady.com and on Linkedin at www.linkedin.com/in/comara

Connect and learn more from Kristine at https://www.kristinethody.com and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody
Subscribe to the podcast Embrace the Squiggle and listen every week for a new career adventure!

And please leave us a rating on your podcast app, it really helps us out.

In this episode of Embrace the Squiggle, Colleen and Kristine speak with Andreea Parc about her unique career journey from Romania to New York City to prison! Andreea shares her profound experiences, including almost three years in federal prison, and how she rebuilt her life using her A.P.P.L.E. technique—Awareness, Perspective, Presence, Letting Go, and Empowerment. Join them as they uncover the hidden gems of career transformation and the true meaning of success beyond titles and monetary gains.

Are you looking to change careers, but have no idea what you might want to do next? Design Your Next Squiggle is for you! Get tickets here:

Design Your Next Squiggle - Sept 12 - Oct. 3

Colleen and Kristine will guide you through their unique and successful process to clearly define what your next squiggle could be.

Includes:

• four live 90-minute sessions (September 12, 19, 26 and October 3 from 7pm - 8:30pm ET)
• one 45-minute career coaching call with either Colleen or Kristine (your choice!)
• Gallup CliftonStrengths assessment
• Customized handouts

Connect with Andreea Parc: 

Andreea Parc | Author of www.andreeaparc.com

Andreea on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreea-parcalaboiu-coach/

Connect and learn more from Colleen at www.maxady.com and on Linkedin at www.linkedin.com/in/comara

Connect and learn more from Kristine at https://www.kristinethody.com and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody
Subscribe to the podcast Embrace the Squiggle and listen every week for a new career adventure!

And please leave us a rating on your podcast app, it really helps us out.

Facing a challenging career transition? This week Colleen and Kristine talk with Jessica Bacal about practical steps for those feeling stuck in their current jobs. Jess also shares her unique career journey, including her role at Smith College, authoring books on rejection and mistakes, and her thoughts on gap years for students.

Jessica Bacal is the editor of two books, Mistakes I Made at Work (2014) and The Rejection That Changed My Life (2021), both published by Penguin Random House. She is Director of Reflective Practices at Smith College, in Northampton, Massachusetts, where she helps students explore identity and find resilience in community. Jessica also teaches a course called Designing Your Path, which guides students to consider questions like: What is your story? What matters to you? What skills do you need to pursue what matters?

Get her rejection book and mistakes book.

Connect with Jessica on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicabacal/

Check our Jessica’s website!

Are you looking to change careers, but have no idea what you might want to do next? Design Your Next Squiggle is for you! Get tickets here:

Design Your Next Squiggle - Sept 12 - Oct. 3

Colleen and Kristine will guide you through their unique and successful process to clearly define what your next squiggle could be.

Includes:

• four live 90-minute sessions (September 12, 19, 26 and October 3 from 7pm - 8:30pm ET)
• one 45-minute career coaching call with either Colleen or Kristine (your choice!)
• Gallup CliftonStrengths assessment
• Customized handouts

Connect and learn more from Colleen at www.maxady.com and on Linkedin at www.linkedin.com/in/comara

Connect and learn more from Kristine at https://www.kristinethody.com and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody
Subscribe to the podcast Embrace the Squiggle and listen every week for a new career adventure!

And please leave us a rating on your podcast app, it really helps us out.

A successful career squiggle is full of talking to people you know, making connections, and setting goals.

Kristine and Colleen chat with Roxanne St. Pierre about her diverse career journey from communications to HR, her involvement in major events like the Winter Carnival and the Olympics, and her recent entrepreneurial venture into creating notebooks. Roxanne shares invaluable insights on career clarity, adaptability, and the significance of setting clear goals. Tune in to learn how to embrace your career's twists and turns with confidence.

Link to the Time Management TED Talk: https://www.ted.com/talks/laura_vanderkam_how_to_gain_control_of_your_free_time?subtitle=en&lng=es

Connect with Roxanne on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roxannestp/

Follow her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saint_papier?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

Connect and learn more from Colleen at www.maxady.com and on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/in/comara

Connect and learn more from Kristine at https://www.kristinethody.com and on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody

Subscribe to the podcast Embrace the Squiggle and listen every week for a new career adventure!

And please leave us a rating on your podcast app, it really helps us out.

Colleen and Kristine chat with Joy Hermansen about her journey from practicing law to navigating grief and ultimately finding her passion in nonprofit leadership and executive education. Joy shares insights on coping with loss, shifting career paths, and the importance of purpose in one's professional life. Listeners will hear about the power of volunteering, transferable skills, and the realization that it's never too late to be who you might have been. This conversation highlights the importance of following your passions and embracing the unexpected twists and turns in your career journey.

Connect with Joy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joy-hermansen/

Connect and learn more from Colleen at www.maxady.com and on Linkedin at www.linkedin.com/in/comara
Connect and learn more from Kristine at https://www.kristinethody.com and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody
Subscribe to the podcast Embrace the Squiggle and listen every week for a new career adventure!

And please leave us a rating on your podcast app, it really helps us out.

Colleen and Kristine speak with Ashley Tresoline who shares her career journey from aspiring figure skater to holistic personal chef and food educator with her business, Bella Foodie. Diagnosed with MS at 21, Ashley recounts her struggle and how she learned to leverage nutrition to manage her symptoms. She discusses her first job in finance, transitioning into entrepreneurship, and the importance of balancing medical and holistic treatments. Ashley offers insights on healthy snacking, the power of nutrition, and maintaining a positive outlook despite challenges.

Connect with Ashley:

On Linkedin 

On Facebook

On Instagram

Connect and learn more from Colleen at www.maxady.com and on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/in/comara
Connect and learn more from Kristine at https://www.kristinethody.com and on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody
Subscribe to the podcast Embrace the Squiggle and listen every week for a new career adventure!

And please leave us a rating on your podcast app, it really helps us out.

In this episode of Embrace the Squiggle, Kristine and Colleen dive into an enriching conversation with longtime listener Laurel McLaughlin about the transformative impact of international experiences on empathy and career development. Laurel shares her journey from studying art history and teaching abroad to working in web communications at Clark University, highlighting the importance of creativity, adaptability, and continuous learning. Tune in for insights on weaving diverse experiences into a fulfilling career and the value of liberal arts education.

Connect with Laurel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurel-mclaughlin-4331a3b1/

Connect and learn more from Colleen at www.maxady.com and on Linkedin at www.linkedin.com/in/comara
Connect and learn more from Kristine at https://www.kristinethody.com and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody
Subscribe to the podcast Embrace the Squiggle and listen every week for a new career adventure!

And please leave us a rating on your podcast app, it really helps us out.

This week on Embrace the Squiggle, Kristin Fichera joins us to share her experiences figuring out that her dream job was the first job she ever dreamed of. Her story involves significant life decisions and a pursuit of happiness that aligns with her own values. She highlights the importance of authenticity, networking, and making career decisions from a position of strength. Kristen's story is a testament to embracing the unexpected squiggly turns in one’s career while staying true to personal values and happiness.

Connect with Kristin:

Kristin's Insta

Insta: MsFishHasAWish

Kristin on TikTok

Connect and learn more from Colleen at www.maxady.com and on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/in/comara

Connect and learn more from Kristine at https://www.kristinethody.com and on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody
Subscribe to the podcast Embrace the Squiggle and listen every week for a new career adventure!

And please leave us a rating on your podcast app, it really helps us out.

Colleen and Kristine explore time management techniques for leaders, discussing the challenges of delegating tasks, adjusting to new roles, and understanding personal time management styles. They share insights on setting effective boundaries, communicating clearly, and making productive use of resources. Tune in to discover strategies that help reclaim your time, master delegation, and boost efficiency!

Connect and learn more from Colleen at www.maxady.com and on Linkedin at www.linkedin.com/in/comara

Connect and learn more from Kristine at https://www.kristinethody.com and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody

Subscribe to the podcast Embrace the Squiggle and listen every week for a new career adventure!

And please leave us a rating on your podcast app, it really helps us out.

This week on Embrace the Squiggle we get into confidence and how to ind your most confident self! Suzanne Parker Joins us to share her dynamic career journey from music education to nonprofit leadership. Suzanne shares all about her evolving career path that led her to the nonprofit sector. They discuss Suzanne's impactful work with Girls Inc., an organization dedicated to empowering young girls through health, education, and leadership programs, and emphasizes the importance of confidence-building and community involvement.

Connect with Suzanne on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suzanne-parker-70548313/

Check out Girls Inc.: https://www.girlsincvalley.org/

Connect and learn more from Colleen at www.maxady.com and on Linkedin at www.linkedin.com/in/comara

Connect and learn more from Kristine at https://www.kristinethody.com and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody
Subscribe to the podcast Embrace the Squiggle and listen every week for a new career adventure!

And please leave us a rating on your podcast app, it really helps us out.

This episode of Embrace the Squiggle Kim Isil gets coached LIVE! Kim reached out to us on TikTok and we are so happy to dig into her career squiggle with you live. Kim shares her unconventional career journey from aspiring veterinarian to becoming a flight attendant for the military, and later moving into HR and recruiting, Kim's story is filled with unexpected twists and turns. The discussion delves deep into career transformations, exploring the importance of finding passion, building connections, and being open to new industries. This episode is full of practical advice on how to approach career change with curiosity and strategy.

Connect with Kim: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kim-isil-780b845/

Connect and learn more from Colleen at www.maxady.com and on Linkedin at www.linkedin.com/in/comara

Connect and learn more from Kristine at https://www.kristinethody.com and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody
Subscribe to the podcast Embrace the Squiggle and listen every week for a new career adventure!

And please leave us a rating on your podcast app, it really helps us out.

This week Colleen chats with Jess Colson, a dynamic professional with a background in higher education fundraising, sports management, and nonprofit leadership. A lover of all things sports, Jess chooses to invest her time into running a successful softball training company, NWS Fastpitch, and advocating for equity for women in the sports industry. After thousands of casual conversations between friends remarking on how sports impacted their careers and relationships, Jess launched The Postgame Amateurs Podcast in 2022 to shine a light on the incredible women who “went pro” in something other than athletics. Jess has been a staff member of Girls Inc. of the Valley since 2019, currently serving as the Director of Development and Communications where she drives fundraising strategies and external communications.

Jess shares her non-linear career journey from aspiring teacher and veterinarian to fundraiser and business owner. She discusses her experiences at Six Flags, her involvement with Girls Inc., and her venture into coaching young softball players through her business, NWS Fast Pitch. Highlighting the importance of trust, communication, and leadership, Jess offers valuable insights into managing teams and navigating career transitions.

Follow Jess on Instagram @‌jesscolson_

Connect with Jess on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-colson-mba/

Connect and learn more from Colleen at www.maxady.com and on Linkedin at www.linkedin.com/in/comara

Connect and learn more from Kristine at https://www.kristinethody.com and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody
Subscribe to the podcast Embrace the Squiggle and listen every week for a new career adventure!

And please leave us a rating on your podcast app, it really helps us out.

This episode of Embrace the Squiggle, Colleen and Kristine discuss OOO (aka out of office) and reflect on the importance of preparing for time off. They share strategies for leaders and team members to ensure smooth operations during absences, such as clear communication, setting boundaries, and delegating tasks. If you’re about to take some time off, this episode is for you! And if you don't have any vacations planned right now, this is your reminder to plan some time off. 

Interested in being a guest on the podcast in 2025? Fill out our application here: https://forms.gle/QX6a9a7cV76VYzbt9

Connect and learn more from Colleen at www.maxady.com and on Linkedin at www.linkedin.com/in/comara

Connect and learn more from Kristine at https://www.kristinethody.com and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody

Subscribe to the podcast Embrace the Squiggle and listen every week for a new career adventure!

And please leave us a rating on your podcast app, it really helps us out.

This episode of Embrace the Squiggle asks the question, do you really need that fancy degree? 

Elissa Unton shares with us about her non-linear career path. Elissa shares insights from her roles in valuation, investor relations, and her experience launching a successful advocacy project for homeless support. They delve into the value of networking, the importance of finding work that leverages one's strengths, and provide advice for considering an MBA.

Connect with Elissa: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elissaunton/

Instagram @‌elissainLA

Her Answers to Speed Round:

Color: teal-green (plants!)

Place on Earth: park Montana de Oro cliffside park in California

No tv

Value in others: uniqueness - “I don’t think like you.”

Books:

The Power of Full Engagement https://a.co/d/0yRi7j3

Range https://a.co/d/4STrdPS

Presence https://a.co/d/hYwJLPo

Did you have a dream job that once you got it, you actually didn’t like that much? This episode is for you.

This week on Embrace the Squiggle we hear from Joan Perreault, who discusses what its like to have a dream job for 15 years that ends up not being everything she thought it would be. They explore the importance of leadership in job satisfaction, tips for identifying the right leader during a job search.

Joan has navigated through various roles and industries along her very squiggly career path. Her career journey has taken her from for-profit to non-profit, marketing to education, at home and abroad, with stints in higher ed, manufacturing, healthcare, and even government service. She's been pleasantly surprised at just how relevant her seemingly disparate experience has been with each new career step that she takes.

It all comes together in Joan's current role as a Continuous Improvement Coach for Unit-Based Teams (UBTs) at UMass Memorial Health, where she represents a labor-management partnership between the hospital system and its largest labor union, the SHARE union.

Outside of work, Joan has an addiction to audiobooks, practices improv comedy, and enjoys spending time with her partner and two little ones.

• What color brings you the most joy? Blue
• What is your favorite place on earth? Playa Fronton in the DR, can only get there by row boat
• What do you value most in others? Authentic and real people
• What book recommendation do you have for our listeners? Drive by Daniel Pink https://a.co/d/gqT6DoM

Connect with Joan on LinkedIn

Interested in being a guest on the podcast in 2025? Fill out our application here https://forms.gle/QX6a9a7cV76VYzbt9

Connect and learn more from Colleen at www.maxady.com and on Linkedin at www.linkedin.com/in/comara

Connect and learn more from Kristine at https://www.kristinethody.com and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody
Subscribe to the podcast Embrace the Squiggle and listen every week for a new career adventure!

And please leave us a rating on your podcast app, it really helps us out.

This episode of Embrace the Squiggle Dawn Creighton shares her squiggly path starting from her childhood dreams of being in cosmetology to her diverse roles in banking, sales, nonprofit management, and community outreach. She emphasizes the importance of authenticity, resilience, following one's gut, and valuing personal experiences and connections above material possessions.

Dawn Creighton is Assistant Vice President, Community Outreach Officer, Western Massachusetts Market, Liberty Bank. Dawn is highly connected in the Western Massachusetts community through her work past experiences with the Associated Industries of MA, Greenfield Community College, MassHire Holyoke, and Corporation for Public Management. She created many partnerships with local non-profits.

Speed Round Answers:

• What colour brings you the most joy? Pearl / off-white
• What is your favourite place on earth? Being in a kayak.
• If you were to get a tattoo, what would it be? Something like her daughter’s fish hook tattoo
• What book recommendation do you have for our listeners? Are You There God, It’s Me Margaret? Judy Blume https://a.co/d/iTCgNAp

Connect with Dawn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dawncreighton/

Interested in being a guest on the podcast in 2025? Fill out our application here https://forms.gle/QX6a9a7cV76VYzbt9

Connect and learn more from Colleen at www.maxady.com and on Linkedin at www.linkedin.com/in/comara

Connect and learn more from Kristine at https://www.kristinethody.com and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody
Subscribe to the podcast Embrace the Squiggle and listen every week for a new career adventure!

And please leave us a rating on your podcast app, it really helps us out.

This episode is a celebration of squiggles and commitment! We went all in on this podcast, and it has been such a pleasure to make this squiggly podcast for you all. This episode not only a celebration, but also includes a focus on navigating internal promotions, building networks, and leveraging mentorship and sponsorship. We also discuss the differences between mentorship and sponsorship and share personal stories of career growth, rejection, and success.

Interested in being a guest on the podcast in 2025? Fill out our application here https://forms.gle/QX6a9a7cV76VYzbt9

Connect and learn more from Colleen at www.maxady.com and on Linkedin at www.linkedin.com/in/comara

Connect and learn more from Kristine at https://www.kristinethody.com and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody
Subscribe to the podcast Embrace the Squiggle and listen every week for a new career adventure!

And please leave us a rating on your podcast app, it really helps us out.

Were you a theatre kid? Do you think you have used your theatre kid skills in your squiggly career?

This week we speak with Shannon Herber to discuss her squiggly career journey from musical theatre and her pivot into the music industry. Shannon’s story is a testament to the power of adaptability, continuous learning, and embracing life's unexpected turns.

Shannon is the Founder & Chief Consultant of the music industry consulting firm Wise River Consulting. Wise River works at the intersection of music and tech, introducing artists, labels and managers to the ways in which emerging tech can enhance their connection to fans, build communities and provide passive revenue streams. Wise River also includes live events, artist relations and GRAMMY consulting. Ms. Herber was named one of Shesaid.so's Alternative Power 100 Music List in 2019 and is a Global Advisory Board Member for UK-based arts non-profit In Place of War; a Co-Chair of the Association For Electronic Music's Emerging Tech Committee; and a Board Member for US-based music non-profit Femme House. She is a Professional member of the Recording Academy and a member of the UK-based Association for Independent Music.

Connect with Shannon: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannon-herber/

https://www.instagram.com/shannon.herber/
https://bsky.app/profile/shannonherber.bsky.social

Rapid Fire:

• What are you binging or streaming on TV right now? Nobody Want's This on Netflix and Say Nothing on FX
• Where is somewhere you want to visit again? Bali, Indonesia
• Book Recommendation? Doppelgänger by Naomi Klein

Interested in being a guest on the podcast in 2025? Fill out our application here https://forms.gle/QX6a9a7cV76VYzbt9

Connect and learn more from Colleen at www.maxady.com and on Linkedin at www.linkedin.com/in/comara

Connect and learn more from Kristine at https://www.kristinethody.com and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody
Subscribe to the podcast Embrace the Squiggle and listen every week for a new career adventure!

And please leave us a rating on your podcast app, it really helps us out.

In this episode of Embrace the Squiggle, Colleen and Kristine sit down with Ja'Milla Lomas, a dynamic professional whose career is as multifaceted as her talents. From dreaming of becoming a cardiovascular surgeon ballerina to thriving in communications and community service, Ja'Milla's journey is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the power of finding your true purpose.

Born and raised in Houston, Ja'Milla reflects on her path of self-discovery, from her transformative years at Smith College to navigating career shifts that spanned retail, experiential marketing, and special events. Now serving as the Public Information Officer and Community Relations Director for the Houston Fire Department, Ja'Milla combines her innate charisma and passion for service to make a meaningful impact on her community.

• What are you binging or streaming on TV right now? The Walking Dead
• What color brings you the most joy? rainbow! I love colors! Each one brings out a different kind of emotion in you.
• What is your favorite place on earth? place of serenity - getting lost in Paris - campsite in a random place
• What do you value most in others? honesty - lies will eventually unravel
• What book recommendation do you have for our listeners? My Darkest Prayer https://a.co/d/7OMXbph
• A Free Man of Color https://a.co/d/9OhKQpj

Connect with Ja’Milla https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamillacklomas/

Follow on Insta: millamoo1913

Interested in being a guest on the podcast in 2025? Fill out our application here https://forms.gle/QX6a9a7cV76VYzbt9

Connect and learn more from Colleen at www.maxady.com and on Linkedin at www.linkedin.com/in/comara

Connect and learn more from Kristine at https://www.kristinethody.com and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody
Subscribe to the podcast Embrace the Squiggle and listen every week for a new career adventure!

And please leave us a rating on your podcast app, it really helps us out.

Have you ever had a boss who is just checked out?

Colleen and Kristine delve into the challenges of disengaged leadership and its impact on teams. They explore how overburdened and under-trained leaders can unintentionally harm team dynamics and productivity. The discussion includes strategies for effective communication, the importance of weekly feedback, and the value of hiring complementary skills to build a well-rounded team. They also touch on the concepts of reverse mentoring and cultivating a personal board of directors for leaders.

Interested in being a guest on the podcast in 2025? Fill out our application here https://forms.gle/QX6a9a7cV76VYzbt9

Connect and learn more from Colleen at www.maxady.com and on Linkedin at www.linkedin.com/in/comara

Connect and learn more from Kristine at https://www.kristinethody.com and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody
Subscribe to the podcast Embrace the Squiggle and listen every week for a new career adventure!

And please leave us a rating on your podcast app, it really helps us out.

Colleen and Kristine sit down with Emmy Award-winning producer, journalist, and author Shirley Neal to explore careers, creativity, and the power of perseverance.

🌍 Shirley shares her journey from TV writing and production to authoring her debut book, Afrocentric Style: A Celebration of Blackness & Identity in Pop Culture. The discussion dives into:
✨ Navigating career challenges and following your intuition
✨ The significance of travel in shaping career decisions
✨ Staying current in your field and adapting to change

📖 Shirley also gives an inside look into her new book, a stunning exploration of Black identity and culture through pop culture moments, memes, and memories.

🎧 Tune in for career insights, pop culture wisdom, and Shirley’s inspiring advice for aspiring professionals.

Connect with Shirley:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/shirley-neal/

https://afrocentricstyle.net/

https://shirleyneal.com/

Connect and learn more from Colleen at www.maxady.com and on Linkedin at www.linkedin.com/in/comara

Connect and learn more from Kristine at https://www.kristinethody.com and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody
Subscribe to the podcast Embrace the Squiggle and listen every week for a new career adventure!

And please leave us a rating on your podcast app, it really helps us out.

In this episode of Embrace the Squiggle, Colleen and Kristine tackle two impactful listener questions that highlight the challenges of leadership and the importance of work-life balance.

💡 Leadership Challenges: Listener 1 writes in about how to handle inaccurate data from colleagues that’s impacting her reports and reputation. Colleen and Kristine share strategies for:

• Communicating effectively with your team.
• Building trust to address issues constructively.
• Creating a collaborative work environment to solve recurring problems.

⏳ Reclaiming Your Balance: Inspired by listener 2 who realized her life was entirely defined by work, the hosts discuss actionable ways to:

• Set boundaries and reclaim personal time.
• Develop a multifaceted identity outside of your career.
• Prioritize your well-being without sacrificing professional growth.

Packed with relatable stories and practical advice, this episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating career challenges or striving for personal growth.

Interested in being a guest on the podcast in 2025? Fill out our application here https://forms.gle/QX6a9a7cV76VYzbt9

Connect and learn more from Colleen at www.maxady.com and on Linkedin at www.linkedin.com/in/comara

Connect and learn more from Kristine at https://www.kristinethody.com and on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody
Subscribe to the podcast Embrace the Squiggle and listen every week for a new career adventure!

And please leave us a rating on your podcast app, it really helps us out!

In this episode of Embrace the Squiggle, Colleen and Kristine sit down with Maggie Clancy, an entrepreneur and riding academy owner, to discuss resilience, leadership, and making bold career shifts.

From an early dream of medical school to building a thriving horse business, Maggie shares the lessons she’s learned along the way—including how working with horses shaped her leadership skills. She also opens up about the challenges of running a business from her own property, setting boundaries as an entrepreneur, and the tough decision to shut down an app she developed.

This episode explores:
✅ The power of asking, “Do you need me to listen or help solve this?”
✅ How resilience and adaptability fuel long-term success
✅ The realities of business ownership and boundary-setting
✅ Why knowing when to pivot is a critical leadership skill

Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a leader, or someone navigating career changes, Maggie’s story is packed with valuable insights.

🎧 Tune in now! And don’t forget to leave us a rating—it helps more people find the show!

Connect with Maggie:
🔗 LinkedIn
🐴 Strides Riding Academy
📸 Instagram
📘 Facebook

Want to be a guest on Embrace the Squiggle in 2025? Apply here: Guest Application

🔗 Follow Colleen & Kristine:
🌟 Colleen | LinkedIn
🌟 Kristine | LinkedIn

Is your college student (or maybe you!) wondering how LinkedIn can help land that first job? This episode is packed with practical career advice to make job searching easier and more effective.

This week on Embrace the Squiggle, Colleen and Kristine sit down with Paige Carbone, Regional Executive Director for MADD, to uncover key lessons from her career journey—from college admissions to nonprofit leadership. The episode shares insider tips on LinkedIn for job seekers, how to align career choices with personal values, and why knowing your strengths can set you apart.

💡 What you’ll learn in this episode:
✔️ How LinkedIn can open doors for students and job seekers
✔️ The importance of balancing work, family, and personal growth
✔️ How different generations approach career success
✔️ The evolving landscape of remote work—and how to thrive in it

🎧 Hit play now & take your career to the next level! Don’t forget to leave a rating—it helps more people discover the show. ⭐

Connect with Paige: Linkedin

Want to be a guest on Embrace the Squiggle in 2025? Apply here: Guest Application

🔗 Follow Colleen & Kristine:
🌟 Colleen | LinkedIn
🌟 Kristine | LinkedIn

Hate the idea of networking? You’re not alone. This week, Colleen and Kristine break down how to make networking feel natural—not slimy.

💡 Why networking isn’t just about job-hunting
💡 How to build connections without an agenda
💡 Easy ways to expand your network (LinkedIn, local events & more!)
💡 Simple LinkedIn strategies to boost your visibility

Ditch the awkwardness and start making connections that actually matter. Tune in now!

Want to be a guest in 2025? Apply here!

🔗 Connect with Colleen & Kristine:
🌟 Colleen on LinkedIn
🌟 Kristine on LinkedIn

Colleen and Kristine kick things off with LinkedIn advice for anyone facing layoffs, then dive into an inspiring conversation with Luzed Guzman Romano, a top-performing sales leader and advocate for women in Massachusetts.

💡 In This Episode:
✨ How to authentically present yourself on social media after a job loss
✨ The power of compassionate leadership & community
✨ Luzed’s journey from nonprofit work to corporate success
✨ How mentorship and women leaders shaped her career

Plus, fun rapid-fire questions & book recommendations! 📚

🔗 Connect with Luzed:
👉 LinkedIn
👉 MassLive Feature

🎤 Want to be a guest in 2025? Apply here!

🔗 Follow Colleen & Kristine:
🌟 Colleen on LinkedIn
🌟 Kristine on LinkedIn

Kristine and Colleen sit down with Michelle Hooey to explore the nonlinear paths of career growth, personal transformation, and navigating life’s toughest challenges. After nearly two decades in corporate leadership, Michelle hit burnout while also facing profound personal struggles—multiple pregnancy losses and the birth of her daughter, Goldie, in 2023, who was born with complex medical needs. This experience reshaped her world, leading her on a deep spiritual journey and ultimately to becoming a certified Quantum Coach.

Today, Michelle is committed to creating a purpose-driven life, both for herself and for the busy moms she now helps transition from feeling stuck to thriving. She lives in Langley, BC, with her husband, two daughters, and two dogs—embracing both the chaos and the love that come with it.

🎧 Tune in for an inspiring conversation on resilience, authenticity, and redefining success!

Connect with Michelle

From Burnt Out to Badass Mom

Anchorless Coaching on Instagram 

🎤 Want to be a guest in 2025? Apply here!

🔗 Follow Colleen & Kristine:
🌟 Colleen on LinkedIn
🌟 Kristine on LinkedIn

In this episode of Embrace the Squiggle, Colleen and Kristine sit down with Michelle Wirth, an inspiring entrepreneur and former engineer who has navigated a truly remarkable career journey. From dreaming of becoming Oprah to breaking barriers in engineering and public relations at Mercedes-Benz, Michelle shares the lessons and challenges that shaped her path. Tune in to hear Michelle’s story of resilience, reinvention, and community impact. If you’re looking for motivation to embrace career transitions, support local businesses, and step into leadership with confidence, this episode is for you!

Topics Covered:
✅ Michelle’s unconventional career path: from engineering to PR to entrepreneurship
✅ The motivation behind launching Feel Good Shop Local
✅ The power of community and supporting independent businesses
✅ Lessons on leadership, intuition, and navigating career pivots
✅ The importance of lifting others up along the way
Resources & Links:
🌟 Learn more about Feel Good Shop Local: http://FeelGoodShopLocal.com
🌟 Follow Feel Good Shop Local: Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn
🌟 Check out Mercedes-Benz of Springfield: Website | Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn
🌟 Connect with Michelle: LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook

🎤 Want to be a guest in 2025? Apply here!

🔗 Follow Colleen & Kristine:
🌟 Colleen on LinkedIn
🌟 Kristine on LinkedIn

🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review Embrace the Squiggle for more inspiring stories!

Colleen and Kristine sit down with Karen Single for a candid and inspiring conversation about embracing the unexpected turns in a career.

Karen opens up about her journey—from dreaming of becoming a teacher in the 1960s to facing academic dismissal from college, and ultimately carving out a fulfilling path in higher education. She reflects on career pivots, including a detour into the corporate world at Fidelity, stepping back to prioritize family, and eventually returning to student-facing work at Wheaton College.

This episode dives deep into the real stories behind hiring practices, the power of curiosity, and the role of supportive partners in making bold career moves. Karen also shares her take on why we need to rethink experience requirements for entry-level roles and how to stay open to reinvention at any stage.

🎤 Want to be a guest in 2025? Apply here!

🔗 Follow Colleen & Kristine:
🌟 Colleen on LinkedIn
🌟 Kristine on LinkedIn

🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review Embrace the Squiggle for more inspiring stories!

What happens when you're suddenly in charge of the people you used to work alongside? In this episode, Colleen and Kristine unpack the tricky dynamics of leadership transitions—especially when it means managing former colleagues and friends.

They share real talk on:

• Setting new boundaries (without being a jerk)
• Navigating emotional landmines with emotional intelligence
• Redefining relationships at work
• The shift from control to compassion in modern leadership
• Why knowing your team’s strengths is your real power move

Plus: We're now on YouTube! Come see the new recording setup in action.

🎤 Want to be a guest in 2025? Apply here!

🔗 Follow Colleen & Kristine:
🌟 Colleen on LinkedIn
🌟 Kristine on LinkedIn

🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review Embrace the Squiggle for more inspiring stories!

How do you turn career pivots into purpose-driven success? This week, Kristine and Colleen sit down with Lisa Michaud, a real estate investor, entrepreneur, and former HR and accounting professional, to explore her incredible career evolution. Lisa opens up about the mindset shifts that helped her navigate multiple career transitions, the power of mentorship, and why personal challenges—including a major health scare—forced her to redefine success on her own terms.

In this episode, you'll learn:
✨ How adaptability and intentionality shape a fulfilling career
✨ The role of mentors in guiding career transformation
✨ Why setting boundaries is essential for sustainable success
✨ How personal wake-up calls can spark bold career changes

If you're feeling stuck or uncertain about your next career move, Lisa’s story is packed with insights to help you embrace the twists and turns of your own journey.

It’s Time to Design Your Next Career Squiggle!

We see it all the time - you know you don't want to continue in your current career, but have no idea what you might want to do next! You feel stuck, exhausted, and unsure where to begin the process. 

So before you jump into updating your resume and applying for jobs, pause and take time to figure out what your next career chapter could be. One that’s meaningful, energizes you and feeds your full life.

What to Expect:
Colleen and Kristine will guide you through their unique and successful process to clearly define what your next squiggle could be.

Includes: 

• six live hour-long sessions April 22nd - May 27th from 12pm - 1pm ET) 
• one individual 45-minute career coaching call with an experienced career coach
• Gallup CliftonStrengths assessment 
• customized handouts

Jump into your next squiggle here!

🔗 Connect with Lisa:
➡️ Lisa on LinkedIn
➡️ Lisa’s Website

🔗 Follow Colleen & Kristine:
🌟 Colleen on LinkedIn
🌟 Kristine on LinkedIn

Kristine and Colleen chat with Patrika Alis Cheston, a marketing and sales strategist who’s anything but conventional. Patrika walks us through her winding career path—from studying education and journalism to leading strategy for startups and founding her own ventures, Roundology and Outsource SDR.

She opens up about the power of internships, why it’s okay to pivot (again and again), and how recognizing misaligned values at work pushed her to build a career on her own terms.

Plus, we dive into her love for solo travel, how she finds joy in off-the-beaten-path destinations, and what it really looks like to embrace your personal and professional squiggle.

🔗 Connect with Patrika Elise

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrikaalischeston/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/patrikaalis 

https://patrikaalis.com/ 

🔗 Follow Colleen & Kristine:
🌟 Colleen on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/comara/
🌟 Kristine on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinethody/

🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review Embrace the Squiggle for more inspiring stories!