The Career Ready Podcast

College of DuPage Career Services
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  • CAREERS
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Listen to The Career Ready Podcast to learn about resumes, cover letters, LinkedIn, interviewing, and all the things you need to Be Career Ready with the Career Services Center at College of DuPage.

  1. 4D AGO

    Professionalism in Interviews: How to Tackle Mistakes, Failures, and Weaknesses

    In today’s episode, Pierre leads a discussion on how to effectively respond to the common interview question about past mistakes. Information discussed includes why employers ask these types of questions, how to approach your response with honesty and strategy, and how to use the STAR Method to highlight growth, professionalism, and resilience. But first, Rebecca starts the episode by exploring the NACE competency of Professionalism—specifically what it means to be present, prepared, and dependable during the interview process. After listening to this episode, we hope you have a better understanding of how to thoughtfully address questions about mistakes in an interview.  Full episode transcript can be found on the episode page. Below is a general timestamp summary.   00:00–01:00 — Introduction & Episode Overview  The hosts welcome listeners to the Career Ready Podcast and introduce today’s topics: professionalism in interviewing and how to answer questions about past mistakes.  01:00–04:00 — NACE Competency: Professionalism  Rebecca explains the NACE definition of Professionalism, emphasizing being present, prepared, and dependable. She connects these behaviors to interview success, discussing timing, avoiding distractions, and bringing essential materials.  04:00–07:00 — Interview Behavior & Preparation  The conversation highlights how interviews begin the moment a candidate arrives. Tips include appropriate arrival times, minimizing phone use, and preparing resumes, references, and questions. Follow‑up actions such as timely responses and thank‑you emails are also discussed.  07:00–12:00 — Understanding Mistake‑Based Interview Questions  Pierre transitions into why employers ask about mistakes, failures, or weaknesses. The hosts stress honesty, self‑awareness, ownership, and growth. They outline how candidates should choose examples from work, academics, or volunteering.  12:00–16:00 — Using the STAR Method & Example Answers  Pierre explains the STAR Method and provides model responses to mistake and weakness questions. The hosts emphasize focusing on actions and results rather than the negative event itself. The episode closes with reminders about professionalism, resilience, and continual improvement.  Resources Discussed:  The Career Ready Podcast, Episode 28: Interview Prep - Answering Behavioral Questions  Listeners in the College of DuPage community can visit our website. All other listeners are encouraged to view the resources of their local community college, WIOA training programs, or other local support centers. Send us YOUR Listener Questions at careerpodcast@cod.edu Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn @codcareercenter

    16 min

  2. MAR 17

    Turning Interview Anxiety into Confidence: Expert Strategies from a Speech Professor

    In today’s episode, Pierre Michiels interviews Cassandra Wingert. Cassandra Wingert is a speech communication professor who specializes in helping students manage high speech anxiety. In the interview, they discuss interview nerves, confidence-building strategies, and effective communication habits. After listening, we hope you have a better understanding of managing anxiety during interviews.  Full episode transcript can be found on the episode page. Below is a general timestamp summary.   0:00–4:00 — Introduction & Teaching Philosophy Pierre welcomes Cassandra back to the podcast. She introduces her role as a speech communication professor and explains her “Maslow before Bloom” philosophy, emphasizing safety, regulation, and play-based learning as foundations for confident public speaking.  4:00–9:00 — Understanding Interview Anxiety Cassandra breaks down the psychology of nervousness using a car analogy, describing how the amygdala triggers stress responses that disrupt clear thinking. She explains why interview anxiety is normal and how the brain misinterprets interviews as threats.  9:00–15:00 — Strategies to Manage Anxiety They explore physical, mental, and behavioral techniques such as breath regulation, mindset reframing, practicing aloud, and simulating interview environments. Cassandra highlights how preparation reduces the brain’s “alarm system.”  15:00–21:00 — Perfectionism & Recovering from Mistakes Cassandra explains how perfectionism drives anxiety and shares methods for recovering when losing one’s place. She emphasizes that interviewers value professionalism and resilience over flawless performance.  21:00–28:00 — Vocal Habits & Communication Techniques They discuss common nervous speaking habits—speeding up, rambling, monotone delivery—and practical ways to slow down, pause effectively, structure responses, and maintain vocal clarity.  28:00–36:00 — Nonverbal Communication & Confidence Cassandra covers posture, eye contact, facial expression, and how to project steadiness even when nervous. She advises shifting from “performance mode” to “contribution mode.”  36:00–40:00 — Long-Term Skill Building & Final Insights They explore how consistent practice, mock interviews, and communication courses build lasting confidence. Cassandra closes by reinforcing that communication is a learnable skill and encourages students to lean into discomfort to grow.  Resources Discussed: Cassandra Wingert: wingertc@cod.edu  College of DuPage course Speech 1100 (reach out each semester for the special High Speech Anxiety section numbers)  College of DuPage course Speech 1150 Intro Business Communication  College of DuPage course Speech 1120 Small-Group Communication   Listeners in the College of DuPage community can visit our website. All other listeners are encouraged to view the resources of their local community college, WIOA training programs, or other local support centers. Send us YOUR Listener Questions at careerpodcast@cod.edu Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn @codcareercenter

    41 min

  3. MAR 3

    Your Campus Is a Networking Goldmine - Here’s How to Tap In

    Networking isn’t just for job seekers - it starts right where you are. In today’s episode, Rebecca Harrington shares information on how to start networking on campus. Information discussed includes practical ways students can build connections through career fairs, student organizations, professors, alumni, and guest speakers, along with tips for starting early, showing curiosity, and following up effectively. But first, Pierre Michiels starts the episode by exploring the NACE competency of career and self-development, emphasizing curiosity, continuous learning, and seeking development opportunities as foundations for meaningful networking. After listening to this episode, we hope you have a better understanding of how to approach networking in a low‑pressure, relationship‑focused way that supports your long‑term career growth.  Full episode transcript can be found on the episode page. Below is a general timestamp summary.   00:00–01:30 — Introduction & Episode Overview  The hosts introduce the Career Ready Podcast and outline the day’s focus on networking on campus, setting the stage for understanding career readiness and essential skills.  01:30–03:30 — NACE Career & Self‑Development Competency  Pierre explains the NACE competency of career and self‑development, emphasizing curiosity, continuous learning, seeking feedback, and using relationships to grow professionally.  03:30–08:00 — Why Networking Matters  The discussion highlights networking as a relationship‑building process rather than a job hunt. Rebecca explains how early, low‑pressure networking helps students access opportunities and learn from others.  08:00–12:30 — Networking Through Student Organizations  The hosts explore how clubs, leadership roles, guest speakers, and staying after events create natural connections that often lead to internships and mentorships.  12:30–17:00 — Building Relationships with Professors  Rebecca and Pierre describe professors as powerful networking allies, encouraging students to attend office hours, ask about career paths, and build genuine professional relationships.  17:00–21:30 — Leveraging Alumni Networks  They discuss how alumni can offer advice, informational interviews, and industry insights, and how personalized outreach increases the likelihood of meaningful connections.  21:30–25:00 — Campus Events & Guest Speakers  The episode wraps by emphasizing guest lectures and workshops as low‑pressure networking moments, with tips on asking questions, introducing yourself, and following up.  Listeners in the College of DuPage community can visit our website. All other listeners are encouraged to view the resources of their local community college, WIOA training programs, or other local support centers. Send us YOUR Listener Questions at careerpodcast@cod.edu Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn @codcareercenter

    25 min

  4. FEB 17

    Networking and Volunteering: A Student’s Journey Through Career Change

    In today’s episode, Pierre Michiels interviews Kika, a legal studies student at College of DuPage and a legal professional working in immigration law. In the interview, Kika shares her journey of moving from Colombia to the United States, transitioning from a career in real estate to the legal field, and navigating cultural and professional differences while building a new career path. She also discusses the importance of networking, volunteering, mentorship, and using campus resources to gain experience and confidence. After listening to this episode, we hope you have a better understanding of how to approach major career transitions with intention, resilience, and a commitment to continuous growth.  Full episode transcript can be found on the episode page. Below is a general timestamp summary.   00:00–02:00 | Episode Introduction & Guest Overview Host Pierre Michiels introduces the Career Ready Podcast and welcomes Kika, a legal studies student at College of DuPage. He previews her story, which includes immigrating to the U.S., changing careers, and pursuing work in the legal field.  02:00–08:00 | Cultural Transition & Professional Norms Kika discusses moving from Colombia to the United States and adjusting to cultural and workplace differences. She reflects on professional expectations, time management, and how understanding U.S. norms has shaped her growth and confidence in the workplace.  08:00–14:30 | Career Change & Choosing Legal Studies  The conversation shifts to Kika’s background in real estate and what motivated her transition into legal studies. She explains how her past experience aligned with legal work and how College of DuPage supported her career pivot through practical, real-world instruction.  14:30–19:00 | Networking, Volunteering & Skill Building  Kika shares actionable advice on networking with intention, volunteering, joining student organizations, and building relationships that lead to opportunities. She emphasizes humility, consistency, and gaining experience while still in school.  19:00–23:45 | Final Advice & Encouragement  To close, Kika offers guidance for students facing imposter syndrome or uncertainty, encouraging them to take action before feeling “ready.” Pierre reinforces the importance of self-advocacy, campus resources, and steady progress in career development. Listeners in the College of DuPage community can visit our website. All other listeners are encouraged to view the resources of their local community college, WIOA training programs, or other local support centers. Send us YOUR Listener Questions at careerpodcast@cod.edu Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn @codcareercenter

    24 min

  5. FEB 3

    Be Résumé Ready: Using Your Coursework to Stand Out

    In today’s episode, Pierre shares information on translating classroom experience into a strong résumé. Information discussed includes identifying academic projects, using action‑focused bullet points, and showcasing relevant coursework. But first, Jordan starts the episode by highlighting the NACE leadership competency. After listening, we hope you better understand how classroom experience strengthens your résumé.  Full episode transcript can be found on the episode page. Below is a general timestamp summary.   00:00–01:00 | Introduction & Episode Overview  Pierre and Jordan introduce the Career Ready Podcast and outline today’s focus on how classroom experience can be translated into résumé‑ready content. Jordan begins by highlighting leadership as a key NACE competency and why it consistently ranks highly among employer priorities.  01:00–03:30 | Leadership Competency & Student Application  Jordan explains how leadership involves motivating others, recognizing strengths, and building trust. She connects these behaviors to group projects, emphasizing how students can demonstrate leadership before entering the workplace and how academic relationships can support long‑term growth.  03:30–06:00 | Understanding Classroom Experience as Real Experience  Pierre discusses the hidden value of academic work and how students often underestimate their classroom accomplishments. He lists examples such as labs, research, presentations, and software use, emphasizing how these experiences mirror real‑world expectations and should be included on a résumé.  06:00–09:00 | Examples Across Academic Disciplines  Pierre walks through how STEM, business, humanities, social sciences, and creative programs all provide résumé‑worthy experiences. He explains tasks like data analysis, financial reviews, interviews, writing, and portfolio creation—showing how they align with workplace responsibilities.  09:00–12:00 | How to Format Academic Experience on a Résumé  Pierre outlines how to structure academic experience: listing institution, class, dates, a descriptive title, and 3–5 action‑oriented bullet points. He offers sample statements for accounting, legal studies, biology, and marketing, and recommends using Career Coach for professional language.  12:00–13:45 | Final Tips & Encouragement  Jordan and Pierre close by encouraging students to recognize the value of their academic work across résumés, LinkedIn, and interviews. They stress that adding details boosts confidence and helps showcase readiness for internships and early‑career roles.  Resource Mentioned: • Career Coach for general job descriptions and résumé language  Listeners in the College of DuPage community can visit our website. All other listeners are encouraged to view the resources of their local community college, WIOA training programs, or other local support centers. Send us YOUR Listener Questions at careerpodcast@cod.edu Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn @codcareercenter

    14 min

  6. JAN 20

    Respiratory Care Careers with Christa Brennan

    In today’s episode, Jordan Rembrecht interviews Christa Brennan, Program Director for Respiratory Care at College of DuPage. Christa shares her 20 years of experience in the field, including work in neonatal and pediatric care, and discusses the diverse career paths available in respiratory therapy—from critical care and acute care to roles in rehab facilities, physician offices, and home health. The conversation also highlights the skills students gain through COD’s program, such as critical thinking, communication, and professionalism, and the hands-on training offered through labs and clinical rotations. After listening to this episode, we hope you have a better understanding of the respiratory care profession and how COD prepares students for success in this dynamic healthcare field.  View the College of DuPage Respiratory Care program Contact the Respiratory Care program or Christa Brennan directly by emailing brennanc221@cod.edu    Full episode transcript can be found on the episode page. Below is a general timestamp summary.   00 – 01:17 | Introductions  Jordan welcomes listeners and introduces Christa Brennan, Program Director for Respiratory Care at College of DuPage. Christa shares her background, including 20 years as a respiratory therapist and experience in neonatal/pediatric care, transport teams, project management, and teaching.  02:18 – 06:58 | Career Paths in Respiratory Care  Christa explains the variety of roles available in respiratory care—from critical care and ICUs to acute care, rehab facilities, physician offices, pharmaceutical companies, and home health. She emphasizes flexibility and opportunities for specialization after gaining experience.  07:22 – 11:30 | Skills and Competencies  Discussion shifts to essential skills for success: communication, critical thinking, professionalism, and teamwork. Christa highlights how the program reinforces these competencies to meet employer expectations.  12:10 – 16:43 | Program Structure and Clinical Rotations  Christa outlines the program’s unique structure, including lectures, labs, tutoring, and diverse clinical rotations in medical floors, ICUs, emergency departments, and specialized units like neonatal and pulmonary labs.  17:11 – 21:48 | Preparing for Success  Advice for students includes leveraging resources, practicing teamwork, managing stress in high-pressure situations, and being receptive to feedback for professional growth.  23:08 – 24:47 | How to Learn More  Christa shares how prospective students can access program details and advising sessions through the College of DuPage website.  Listeners in the College of DuPage community can visit our website. All other listeners are encouraged to view the resources of their local community college, WIOA training programs, or other local support centers. Send us YOUR Listener Questions at careerpodcast@cod.edu Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn @codcareercenter

    24 min

  7. JAN 6

    Human Services Careers with Jason Floren

    In today’s episode, Rebecca Harrington interviews Jason Floren. Jason is a professor of Human Services at College of DuPage. In the interview, they discuss the diverse career paths within human services, the skills students gain through COD’s program, and the importance of internships and volunteer experiences. After listening to this episode, we hope you have a better understanding of how a career in human services can provide meaningful opportunities to help others and make a positive impact in your community. View the College of DuPage Human Services program Contact the Human Services program or Jason Floren directly by emailing florin@cod.edu  Full episode transcript can be found on the episode page. Below is a general timestamp summary.   00:00 – 01:00 | Welcome & Episode Overview Rebecca Harrington introduces the Career Ready Podcast and today’s focus on exploring careers in human services. 01:00 – 03:00 | Meet Jason Floren Rebecca welcomes Jason Floren, professor of Human Services at College of DuPage. Jason shares his background, career journey, and passion for helping others. 03:00 – 06:00 | Understanding Human Services Jason explains what human services encompasses, comparing it to a blend of psychology, sociology, and social work. He outlines educational pathways from associate to master’s degrees and related career roles. 06:00 – 09:00 | Skills & Program Highlights Discussion centers on key skills students gain, including self-awareness, empathy, communication, and ethical practices. Jason emphasizes internships and real-world experience as program strengths. 09:00 – 12:00 | Volunteer Work & Field Experience Jason describes service learning and volunteer opportunities as essential for networking and understanding community needs. He details partnerships with local agencies for internships. 12:00 – 14:00 | Continuing Education & Career Growth Rebecca and Jason discuss stackable credentials and COD’s 3+1 partnership with National Louis University, making advanced degrees more affordable and accessible. 14:00 – 17:00 | Final Advice & Resources Jason encourages students to explore different populations, volunteer early, and leverage COD resources. He shares how listeners can learn more about the program. Listeners in the College of DuPage community can visit our website. All other listeners are encouraged to view the resources of their local community college, WIOA training programs, or other local support centers. Send us YOUR Listener Questions at careerpodcast@cod.edu Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn @codcareercenter

    17 min

  8. 12/23/2025

    Automotive Careers with Joe Aranki

    In today’s episode, Pierre Michiels interviews Joe Aranki. Joe Aranki is the Automotive Program Coordinator and professor at College of DuPage with over 30 years of experience in the automotive industry. In the interview, Joe shares his journey from technician to educator, discusses the evolution of modern vehicles, the skills taught in COD’s automotive program, and how students can prepare for careers in this high-demand field. After listening to this episode, we hope you have a better understanding of career paths and opportunities in the automotive industry.  View the College of DuPage Automotive program Contact the Automotive program or Joe Aranki directly by emailing arankij@cod.edu  Full episode transcript can be found on the episode page. Below is a general timestamp summary.   00:00:00 – 00:00:30 | Introduction & Guest Welcome  Host Pierre Michiels introduces the episode and welcomes Joe Aranki, Automotive Program Coordinator and professor at College of DuPage.  00:00:30 – 00:01:09 | Joe’s Background & Career Path  Joe shares his journey from growing up fixing cars with his father to attending trade school, opening his own shop, and transitioning into teaching.  00:01:09 – 00:02:27 | Overview of COD Automotive Program  Discussion of program goals: teaching students to diagnose and repair modern vehicles, articulation agreements for advanced degrees, and career opportunities.  00:02:27 – 00:03:59 | Staying Current with Technology  Joe explains how COD invests in the latest tools and vehicles, ensuring students learn cutting-edge systems and instructors maintain ongoing training.  00:03:59 – 00:06:01 | Skills Beyond Technical Knowledge  Conversation shifts to soft skills like time management, efficiency, and teamwork, which are critical for success in the automotive industry.  00:06:01 – 00:07:00 | Exploring the Field & Getting Started  Advice for aspiring professionals: take introductory classes, seek mentorship, and gain exposure through entry-level roles or networking.  00:07:00 – 00:09:27 | Preparing Students for Industry  Joe highlights how the program teaches problem-solving and system-level understanding rather than memorization, fostering adaptability and technology agility.  00:09:27 – End | Final Advice & Resources  Joe emphasizes the importance of passion, networking, and early experience. He shares resources for learning more about COD’s automotive program and offers personal support.  Listeners in the College of DuPage community can visit our website. All other listeners are encouraged to view the resources of their local community college, WIOA training programs, or other local support centers. Send us YOUR Listener Questions at careerpodcast@cod.edu Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn @codcareercenter

    13 min
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About

Listen to The Career Ready Podcast to learn about resumes, cover letters, LinkedIn, interviewing, and all the things you need to Be Career Ready with the Career Services Center at College of DuPage.

Information

  • Creator
    College of DuPage Career Services
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    96
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Career Ready Podcast
  • Show Website
    The Career Ready Podcast

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