Episodes
Thursday Nov 09, 2023
Thursday Nov 09, 2023
The corporate ladder, often envisioned as a continuous upward trajectory, inevitably leads many to a plateau—a phase where growth seems to pause, and the path forward blurs. Episode 7 delves into this critical juncture, defined by the Harvard Business Review as a period marked by a perceived lack of upward mobility. With 74% of employees encountering this phase, it's a widespread challenge that demands attention.
We explore the structural and personal causes of career plateaus, from limited promotion opportunities to skillset saturation. The repercussions are significant, leading to diminished job satisfaction and organisational commitment, with many professionals considering a departure from their current roles.
Yet, it's not just about climbing the corporate ladder or securing promotions. Job satisfaction and feeling valued are equally crucial. The episode examines the case of Jane, a middle manager whose high performance goes unrecognised, leading to career frustration—a common narrative in the corporate sphere.
However, career plateaus can also be reframed as opportunities for introspection and growth. We delve into the power of a growth mindset, as posited by Carol Dweck, and its role in transforming career plateaus into periods of learning and skill enhancement. For example, Mark, a marketing executive, leverages his plateau to up-skill in digital marketing, thereby reinvigorating his career trajectory.
The episode also emphasizes the importance of revisiting career aspirations and harnessing both intrinsic and extrinsic motivations to maintain momentum. We share the story of Sarah, an IT professional whose clear vision and proactive leadership development propel her towards her goal of leading an IT department.
Critical thinking and strategic planning are presented as essential tools for navigating career plateaus. Anna, an operations manager, uses critical thinking to identify new growth opportunities within her company's expansion, while Robert, a junior analyst, employs a detailed career plan to pave his way toward becoming a financial advisor.
We also highlight the importance of taking calculated risks, as illustrated by Sophia, whose decision to lead a new sales territory leads to a breakthrough promotion.
The episode concludes with practical strategies for career advancement, emphasising continual learning, networking, mentorship, and work-life balance. Emily's story of transitioning to a digital content role, Mike's networking success, and Jessica's work-life recalibration underscore the tangible steps one can take to overcome career stagnation.
"Beyond the Plateau" is more than an episode—it's a roadmap for professionals at a crossroads, offering guidance to transform a career plateau from a stumbling block into a stepping stone for growth, satisfaction, and success. It's a reminder that the journey matters as much as the destination, and every plateau can become a new beginning with the right perspective and actions.
Tuesday Nov 07, 2023
Tuesday Nov 07, 2023
The journey to the pinnacle of corporate success is often romanticised as a straightforward climb. However, the reality is a treacherous ascent fraught with trade-offs and sacrifices. This episode examines the diverse motivations that drive individuals up the corporate mountain, from the allure of higher pay and prestige to the intrinsic satisfaction of impacting an organization.
We look at the stories of industry titans like Marissa Mayer and Brian Acton, whose career choices reflect the spectrum of motivations and the varied definitions of success. While Mayer's intense work ethic propelled her to the top of Yahoo, Acton's decision to step down post-WhatsApp's acquisition by Facebook highlights the value he places on personal life and philanthropy.
The episode underscores the importance of critical thinking and strategic career planning, likening the corporate journey to navigating a pyramid where opportunities narrow as one ascends. We draw inspiration from the careers of Sheryl Sandberg and Tim Cook, whose strategic moves and long-term planning exemplify the power of a well-thought-out career trajectory.
Furthermore, we delve into the significance of mindset, aspirations, and motivation in career progression. We discuss how a growth mindset, as advocated by Carol Dweck, and intrinsic motivations can lead to greater job satisfaction and success, as evidenced by the careers of Mary Barra and Howard Schultz.
Finally, we address the crucial aspect of making informed choices on the corporate ladder. Balancing trade-offs, aligning decisions with personal values, and maintaining a work-life balance are pivotal. We take cues from Susan Wojcicki's approach to leadership, which integrates her role as YouTube's CEO with her commitment to family and personal life.
In conclusion, "The Corporate Ascent" is a guide for the ambitious professional. It's an episode that doesn't just chart the path to the top but also provides the wisdom to traverse it with one's values intact, ensuring that the summit reached is one of personal as well as professional fulfillment.
Thursday Oct 26, 2023
Unplug Your Self S02E05 - Wealth as a Measure of Happiness: Debunking the Myth
Thursday Oct 26, 2023
Thursday Oct 26, 2023
The race to financial success is a common aspiration, but does wealth truly equate to happiness? Research suggests there's a cap to how much happiness money can buy. With figures like Elon Musk highlighting the pressures of immense wealth, we're prompted to question what really drives satisfaction in the corporate world. This episode dives deep into the concept of perverse incentives, where actions driven by certain motivations can lead to unintended negative outcomes. We explore the Wells Fargo scandal as a case in point and emphasise the importance of aligning motivations with long-term satisfaction. The journey of Sheryl Sandberg serves as an inspiration for thoughtful career planning, while the principles of a growth mindset, as proposed by Carol Dweck, are highlighted as crucial for navigating the corporate landscape. The episode concludes with a reflection on the power of acceptance in one's career, drawing inspiration from the likes of Steve Jobs and Tony Hsieh. Join us as we challenge the status quo and redefine the path to genuine happiness in the corporate world.
Thursday Oct 19, 2023
Thursday Oct 19, 2023
In this episode, we unravel the essence of success in the corporate world. Success isn't just about luck or chance; it's a result of a complex interplay of psychological factors that influence career decisions and outcomes. We explore how defining personal success, understanding the psychological aspects of achievement, and cultivating a growth mindset can significantly impact one's career trajectory. Drawing inspiration from real-life examples like Steve Jobs and research insights from renowned psychologists like Carol Dweck, we delve into actionable advice for listeners. Whether it's reframing setbacks as learning experiences or understanding the power of effective career planning, this episode provides a comprehensive guide to navigating the corporate landscape with confidence and purpose.
Thursday Oct 12, 2023
Thursday Oct 12, 2023
The corporate ladder, a symbol of hierarchical progression in the professional world, often captivates individuals with promises of prestige, recognition, and financial rewards. However, true career satisfaction goes beyond titles and external validations. This episode begins by demystifying the corporate ladder, emphasising that success is subjective and varies from person to person.
Societal norms and cultural expectations significantly influence our career aspirations. The pressure to conform to external markers of success can sometimes overshadow personal fulfilment. A study by Harvard Business Review highlights the pitfalls of such societal pressures, which can lead to career dissatisfaction.
However, it's essential to recognise that individual definitions of success are paramount. Dr. Carol Dweck's insights on intrinsic motivation and the growth mindset underscore the importance of internal validation over external accolades.
The episode then transitions into practical career planning strategies. It emphasises introspection, setting SMART goals, and continuously seeking growth opportunities. Real-world examples, like John's transition from a traditional software engineering role to a more fulfilling position in research and development, illustrate the power of aligning personal passions with professional pursuits.
Furthermore, the episode delves into the significance of nurturing a growth mindset for career advancement. Embracing challenges, learning from setbacks, and being adaptable in the face of change are essential traits for professional growth.
Lastly, the episode underscores the importance of defining personal aspirations and motivations. It differentiates between intrinsic and extrinsic motivations and stresses the need to align personal values with organisational goals for genuine career satisfaction.
The episode concludes by addressing the challenge of career stagnation. Acceptance, adaptability, and a proactive approach are highlighted as key strategies to overcome stagnation and rediscover career passion.
Thursday Oct 05, 2023
Thursday Oct 05, 2023
The One Percent Problem refers to the small fraction of the global population that controls a disproportionately large share of wealth, leading to significant societal, economic, and ethical challenges. This episode delves into the factors contributing to the rise of the One Percent, including technological advancements, globalisation, and tax policies that favour the wealthy.
The concentration of wealth among the elite has far-reaching consequences, perpetuating a system where opportunities and resources are skewed in favour of a privileged few. This raises questions about fairness, social cohesion, and the nature of a just society. The episode sheds light on the paradox of wealth, highlighting how, while wealth can drive economic growth and innovation, its extreme concentration poses significant societal challenges. These challenges include hampering social mobility, weakening the middle class, creating market distortions, and eroding social cohesion.
Beyond the economic implications, the episode delves into the moral and ethical dimensions of extreme wealth. It explores the principles of distributive justice, which argue for a fair distribution of wealth, and contrasts this with views that see wealth accumulation as a product of individual effort and meritocracy. The episode emphasises the ethical responsibilities of the wealthy, including philanthropy, charitable giving, and corporate social responsibility, while also highlighting the need for structural reforms to address the root causes of wealth concentration.
Wednesday Sep 27, 2023
Unplug Your Self S02E01 - Wealth and Well-being: A Deep Dive into the Human Condition
Wednesday Sep 27, 2023
Wednesday Sep 27, 2023
In this enlightening episode, we navigate through the multifaceted dimensions of wealth and its profound impact on the human condition. We discuss the significance of wealth in meeting our basic needs and ensuring our physical and psychological well-being. The episode uncovers the paradox of wealth, highlighting how, beyond a certain threshold, the correlation between wealth and happiness diminishes, and an excessive focus on wealth accumulation can lead to strained relationships and compromised overall well-being.
We also delve into the societal implications of wealth disparities, exploring how the concentration of wealth among a small fraction of the population can lead to a myriad of social problems, including reduced social mobility, increased social tensions, and diminished opportunities for individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. The episode emphasizes the importance of addressing inequality and fostering a more equitable distribution of wealth to create a fairer and more inclusive society.
Furthermore, we explore the psychological factors influencing the pursuit of wealth, examining how societal norms, cultural values, and individual psychological needs shape our attitudes, values, and behaviors related to wealth accumulation. The episode provides insights into how the pursuit of materialistic values can impact our overall happiness, life satisfaction, and interpersonal relationships.
Drawing on a wealth of research and studies, including those by Kahneman and Deaton, Kraus and Keltner, and Pickett and Wilkinson, this episode offers a nuanced understanding of the complex relationship between wealth and the human condition and prompts reflections on the pursuit of a fulfilling life beyond financial prosperity.
Sunday May 17, 2020
Ep #25 - You need to teach cars human aggression. Or they will never merge.
Sunday May 17, 2020
Sunday May 17, 2020
Unfortunately I have been a totally lazy ass! I have not been keeping up with my podcast and as a result a month has passed. My aim is to get back to it however and over the months I hope to make this happen.
My guest this week is Paul Joe Hajj. One of the few people I work with who was bold enough to join me on my podcast. He’s a very interesting person and over the time I have gotten to work with him we have waxed lyrical about the human experience many times. I have always enjoyed these chats and thought it would be great to get to know him a bit more. The only part of this interview that was not up to my normal scratch was the accidental deletion of our first interview!! Paul was kind enough to do a take 2 and this the episode you are listening to today.
Thanks everyone for listening! I am keen to get questions from you so that I can adjust and do more with the show. So you can reach out to me via email (podcast@unplugyourself.net) Instagram (@unplug_your_self) or twitter (@unplugyour_self). I’d really like to hear what you think, topics you want covered and if that’s not your bag, just some general feedback. Also make sure you go to iTunes and give the show some stars and feedback. It all helps.
Just remember, by leveraging your self awareness, managing your mindset, having mindfulness and building your emotional intelligence you can unlock your negativity and be the person you want to be!
Monday Apr 06, 2020
Ep #24 - I’m not doomsday prepping! You are!!
Monday Apr 06, 2020
Monday Apr 06, 2020
This week I got the chance to interview a Mr Jordan Carmichael. Someone I have know for a time now. It all started with a phone call ironically. In a moment when I needed phone calls. I was just over 3 months past being made redundant and trying to start my own company. I was failing at that and I was angling to get a real job. At this point I was not getting much in the pipeline of opportunity and was near giving up. Then my phone rang. So what started out like any recruiter calling me quickly turned into a deeper and more meaningful conversation about what I was capable of. How I made an impact. What my real skills were. On that call Jordan pitched me the job that would begin the change I needed in my life. The one that would shift who I was professionally to the next realm. I can’t thank him enough for that. Though he may not know the full effect of what he did, I know I am.
We sort of go COVID-19 crazy and wax lyrical about all the things that are going on in the world. We cover many topics and to be honest I am sure we could have gone on for many more hours. Both being family oriented, professional and ambitious, it is hard to rationalise the world. Especially when you can see the changes. I know I enjoyed talking through the various topics and I hope you do too!
Thanks everyone for listening! I am keen to get questions from you so that I can adjust and do more with the show. So you can reach out to me via email (podcast@unplugyourself.net) Instagram (@unplug_your_self) or twitter (@unplugyour_self). I’d really like to hear what you think, topics you want covered and if that’s not your bag, just some general feedback. Also make sure you go to iTunes and give the show some stars and feedback. It all helps.
Just remember, by leveraging your self awareness, managing your mindset, having mindfulness and building your emotional intelligence you can unlock your negativity and be the person you want to be!
Wednesday Apr 01, 2020
Wednesday Apr 01, 2020
This week I got the chance to interview Paul Armstrong. Paul and I go back some time to when I was working for a large corporate and he came in to bid on some work. He was referred via a network connection and was amazing at identifying the needs of the business as well as working out a plan of attack for building out a global digital presence for the company I was working for. While the work did not go ahead, I was able to maintain contact over the years following this. And as my life changed, I reached out to Paul for some mentorship in my next steps. He was more than happy to oblige. That being said, Paul was always happy to meet up, have a beer and hear what was going on. Often times it was a random encounter that lead to rekindling our meet ups but each and every time Paul met up with me with genuine enthusiasm. Keen to hear where I was at and what I was thinking. A true man of the people!
Links for Mental Health in Australia:
Beyond Blue - 1300 22 4636
Open Arms - 1800 011 046
Kids Helpline - 1800 55 1800
Lifeline - 13 11 14
MensLine Australia - 1300 78 99 78
Suicide Call Back Service - 1300 659 467
Thanks everyone for listening! I am keen to get questions from you so that I can adjust and do more with the show. So you can reach out to me via email (podcast@unplugyourself.net) Instagram (@unplug_your_self]) or twitter (@unplugyour_self). I’d really like to hear what you think, topics you want covered and if that’s not your bag, just some general feedback. Also make sure you go to iTunes and give the show some stars and feedback. It all helps.
Just remember, by leveraging your self awareness, managing your mindset, having mindfulness and building your emotional intelligence you can unlock your negativity and be the person you want to be!