The Career Discovery Podcast

Jo Smyth

A platform dedicated to helping young people broaden their career horizons through insightful, inspiring and empowering conversations with experts in their fields. Our hope is that by sharing conversations like this with you, we can demystify careers that may be confusing, give you access to careers that may seem out of reach and expose you to careers that may be invisible. By doing so, we aim to help you broaden your career horizons and discover your professional potential. Ready to explore limitless possibilities? Tune in now and embark on your journey of career discovery! www.thecareerdiscoverypodcast.com

  1. 11/01/2023

    What Is a Career in Environmental Economics and Policy Like? In Conversation with a Director of Economics and Policy

    Welcome to Episode 51 of The Career Discovery Podcast, the show that's all about helping you broaden your career horizons, discover your professional potential and empower your career journey.  This week, we're excited to introduce Liz, an experienced Director of Economics and Policy in the UK’s Environmental Services Consultancy industry.  Explore fascinating insights from Liz as she delves into her area of expertise (04:45), shares her inspiring career journey (42:25) and provides invaluable advice for her younger self and you! (01:14:30) We also explore key themes from self-trust in decision-making, the importance of gaining diverse perspectives and the powerful impact of mentorship. We also explore why there's always more than one way to achieve your career goals.  So, whether you're considering a career in economics, policy, the environmental services sector or simply seeking inspiration for your professional journey, be sure to tune in! Liz has a wealth of insights waiting for you! Enjoy the show!  → Show notes, links & more *** Thanks so much for listening, we really hope you enjoyed the show! If you found this episode valuable, please help us spread the word by subscribing to the podcast and giving us a 5-star review. And if you have any questions, comments or suggestions, please get in touch using the links below, we would love to hear from you! Instagram LinkedIn Coaching, newsletter, website & more! If you prefer to watch the show, our episodes are available on YouTube too.

    1h 36m
  2. 10/25/2023

    Timeless Insights #6: From Our Conversation With an Architect

    Welcome to Episode 50 of The Career Discovery Podcast, the show that’s all about helping you broaden your career horizons, discover your professional potential and empower your career journey.  This week, we’re delighted to reintroduce Michael, the fantastic guest featured in Episode 6. Michael is an Architect who leads an architectural practice that specialises in residential and commercial architecture in the US.   In this episode, we revisit the timeless and universal career insights that Michael shared:  Work Challenges and Adaptability: Navigating dependencies and comprehending their influence on work delivery. Embracing the significance of transparent communication. Identifying the workplace culture that best aligns with your aspirations. Demonstrating flexibility and adaptability when interacting with clients. Industry Dynamics and Preparedness: Effectively dealing with economic uncertainties and the fluctuations within the industry. Maintaining a balanced workload to prevent quality issues, mistakes and burnout. Personal Growth and Resilience: Embracing mistakes and celebrating shared triumphs within a team. Aspiring to witness a more diverse future within the industry. Recognising that your life’s course is not predetermined and that you possess the ability to shape your journey through each challenge and subsequent lesson.  So, whether you’re contemplating a career in architecture or seeking inspiration for your professional journey, stay tuned as Michael’s insights are sure to inspire and empower your career journey.  Subscribe now to join us every week for fresh episodes, engaging Q&A sessions and more. And if you’re craving extra inspiration and insights, check out our extensive back catalogue of insightful conversations including the full conversation with Michael. → Show notes, links & more *** Thanks so much for listening, we really hope you enjoyed the show! If you found this episode valuable, please help us spread the word by subscribing to the podcast and giving us a 5-star review. And if you have any questions, comments or suggestions, please get in touch using the links below, we would love to hear from you! Instagram LinkedIn Coaching, newsletter, website & more! If you prefer to watch the show, our episodes are available on YouTube too.

    40 min
  3. 10/18/2023

    Timeless Insights #5: From Our Conversation With an Investment Manager

    Welcome to Episode 49 of The Career Discovery Podcast, the show that’s all about helping you broaden your career horizons, discover your professional potential and empower your career journey.  This week, we’re excited to reintroduce our exceptional guest from Episode 5, Van, an Investment Manager with a wealth of experience in the UK’s Investment Management industry. In this episode, we revisit the timeless and universal career insights that Van shared: The Value of Internships: Exploring career preferences and gaining valuable experiences.Adaptability: Adapting to changing work environments and embracing new challenges.Enjoyment Matters: Finding fulfilment in your role by enjoying the content of your work.Overcoming Limiting Beliefs: Overcoming self-doubt.Mentorship and Support: Seeking guidance from role models and mentors while never hesitating to ask for help.Soft Skills and Trust: Developing essential soft skills, doing what’s right and the importance of trust in the workplace.Diverse Internships: Exploring a variety of internship opportunities for a well-rounded perspective.Information Exploration: Taking time to research and gather information before making career decisions.Networking: Reaching out to others for advice and assistance.Skills Versatility: Focusing on your skills but being open to the various contexts in which they can be applied.Stretching Your Comfort Zone: Getting outside of your comfort zone for continued growth.Collaboration: Harnessing the people around you because success is a collective effort. So, whether you’re considering a career in finance or seeking inspiration for your professional journey, stay tuned as Van’s insights will inspire and help you navigate your career journey with confidence. Subscribe now to join us every week for fresh episodes, engaging Q&A sessions and more. And if you’re craving extra inspiration and insights, check out our extensive back catalogue of insightful conversations including the full conversation with Van. → Show notes, links & more *** Thanks so much for listening, we really hope you enjoyed the show! If you found this episode valuable, please help us spread the word by subscribing to the podcast and giving us a 5-star review. And if you have any questions, comments or suggestions, please get in touch using the links below, we would love to hear from you! Instagram LinkedIn Coaching, newsletter, website & more! If you prefer to watch the show, our episodes are available on YouTube too.

    33 min
  4. 10/11/2023

    What Is a Career in Asset Management Operations Like? In Conversation with an Industry Expert

    Welcome to episode 48 of The Career Discovery Podcast, the show that's all about helping you broaden your career horizons, discover your professional potential and empower your career journey.  This week we are excited to introduce you to Jim, a seasoned Sales Director in the UK's recruitment industry. Jim's expertise shines in Asset Management Operations, and he's here to unravel the secrets, insights and opportunities hidden within this dynamic sector.   Jim shares insights on:   Industry Overview:   An overview of the asset management industryAn overview of the asset management operations functionThe size of the industry The concentration of the industry in the UK and around the world Key roles within a typical asset management operations function The culture of the asset management industryThe culture of a typical asset management operations function Diversity, equity and inclusion within the industry  Career Considerations:  For whom a career in asset management operations tends to appeal to What people tend to find challenging about a career in asset management operations  Opportunities and Preparation:  The many paths into asset management and asset management operations Valuable education, training, certifications and skills for aspiring asset management operations professionals Mentorship opportunities within the industryHiring cycles and timings Future Trends:   Insights into the future of asset management operations ESG investing and impact investing  Resources:  The Big Short  Investment Operations Certificate (IOC) Investment Week LinkedIn  We also explore:  Job search strategies  Job application insights  Career development Learning and progress  Workplace culture  So, whether you're considering a career in asset management operations or simply seeking inspiration for your professional journey, stay tuned, as Jim opens the doors to a world of opportunities you might not have known existed.  Subscribe now to join us every week for fresh episodes, engaging Q&A sessions and much more. And if you're craving extra inspiration and insights, check out our extensive back catalogue of insightful conversations. PS - If you have any questions, comments, or suggestions, we'd love to hear from you. Feel free to reach out.   → Show notes, links & more *** Thanks so much for listening, we really hope you enjoyed the show! If you found this episode valuable, please help us spread the word by subscribing to the podcast and giving us a 5-star review. And if you have any questions, comments or suggestions, please get in touch using the links below, we would love to hear from you! Instagram LinkedIn Coaching, newsletter, website & more! If you prefer to watch the show, our episodes are available on YouTube too.

    1h 44m
  5. 10/11/2023

    Curious About Asset Management Operations Careers? Start Here!

    Welcome to episode 47 of The Career Discovery Podcast, the show that's all about helping you broaden your career horizons, discover your professional potential and empower your career journey.   In this episode, we're pulling back the curtain and taking you behind the scenes into the captivating world of asset management operations, the vital functions of asset management that often go unseen. We hear from this week's guest, Jim, about: What is Asset Management?What is Asset Management Operations?What does Asset Management. Operations involve?What makes Asset Management Operations appealing? Intrigued by the world of asset management operations? Whether you’re an aspiring asset management operations professional or you simply seek inspiration, enjoy this preview and join us for the full conversation to learn much more!  Subscribe now to join us every week for fresh episodes, engaging Q&A sessions and much more. And if you're craving extra inspiration and insights, check out our extensive back catalogue of insightful conversations.   PS - If you have any questions, comments, or suggestions, we'd love to hear from you. Feel free to reach out. → Show notes, links & more *** Thanks so much for listening, we really hope you enjoyed the show! If you found this episode valuable, please help us spread the word by subscribing to the podcast and giving us a 5-star review. And if you have any questions, comments or suggestions, please get in touch using the links below, we would love to hear from you! Instagram LinkedIn Coaching, newsletter, website & more! If you prefer to watch the show, our episodes are available on YouTube too.

    8 min
  6. 10/04/2023

    What Is a Career as a CEO Like? In Conversation with a Co-Founder and CEO

    #46 - Welcome to the Career Discovery podcast, the show that’s all about broadening your career horizons, discovering your professional potential and empowering your career journey. On this episode, we’re excited to introduce you to Tim, the CEO and co-founder of a software development company specialising in financial well-being solutions for the employee benefits industry. Tim shares insights on: Area of expertise (03:25) Common misconceptions of the co-founder & CEO rolesThe purpose of the CEO roleAn overview of the industryAn overview of the CEO roleBehind the curtain – key teams within a software development companyThe most enjoyable parts of the roleChallenging parts of the roleProudest moments in the role Career journey (34:20) Tim's transition from aspiring Olympic swimmer to co-founder & CEOHighs of the career journeyChallenges of the career journeyImportance of role models, mentors and sponsors Advice (01:04:59) Helpful education, training and skills for aspiring entrepreneursThe future of the industryAdvice and resources for people who are keen to find out more about financial well-being and careers in entrepreneurship:Nudge Global Innovate UK Claer Barrett Book Google & Twitter! Advice for his younger self and you! We also explore key themes such as: Entrepreneurship insightsCareer development and growthSuccess and personal growthNetworking and relationshipsLife fulfilment and regrets So, whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or CEO, or if you simply seek inspiration, get ready for a captivating conversation that will help you explore new horizons, discover your potential and empower your career journey! → Show notes, links & more *** Thanks so much for listening, we really hope you enjoyed the show! If you found this episode valuable, please help us spread the word by subscribing to the podcast and giving us a 5-star review. And if you have any questions, comments or suggestions, please get in touch using the links below, we would love to hear from you! Instagram LinkedIn Coaching, newsletter, website & more! If you prefer to watch the show, our episodes are available on YouTube too.

    1h 24m
  7. 09/27/2023

    What Is a Career in Soil Science Like? In Conversation with a Soil Scientist and Co-MD

    #44 - On the show week, we’re excited to introduce you to our incredible guest, Lizzie! Lizzie is no ordinary professional; she’s a Soil Scientist and Co-Managing Director in the UK’s Environmental Services industry. Yes, you heard right – soil science! In this episode, Lizzie takes us on a captivating journey through her world, uncovering the fascinating realm of soil science and busting common myths about her profession.  Join us as we explore the profound impact of soil science on our environment and daily lives! Lizzie kindly shares with us: Area of expertise (04:10) Common misconceptions about the soil science roleThe purpose of the soil scientist roleAn overview of the environmental services sectorA glimpse into the typical workday and tasks of soil scientistsKey roles within the team and functions within the organisationThe most enjoyable parts of the role Challenging parts of the role Proudest moments in the role Career journey (47:15) Lizzie’s transition from aspiring artist to soil scientistHighs of the career journey Challenges of the career journey Importance of role models and mentors Advice (01:17:55) Helpful education, training and skills for aspiring soil science professionals What lies ahead for the soil science professionRecommended resources for aspiring soil scientists:British Society of Soil Science Association of Applied Biologists Universal career advice for her younger self and you! We also talk about:  Effective time management strategies Overcoming the fear of public speaking Rebuilding confidence and overcoming challenges The rewards of hard work and persistence Navigating the PhD process Promoting inclusion in the industry Transitioning into senior leadership roles Balancing parenthood and career fulfilment The impact of empowering mentors Leveraging teamwork and individual strengths Balancing money, fulfilment and happiness in career decision-making The value of learning through experience Quotes: “The nation that destroys its soil, destroys itself.” ~ Franklin D. Roosevelt, Former US President “Despite all our accomplishments, we owe our existence to a six-inch layer of topsoil and the fact it rains.” ~ Paul Harvey, American broadcaster  Whether you’re considering a career in soil science or simply seeking career inspiration, this conversation promises to deepen your appreciation for the world beneath our feet and the remarkable career of a Soil Scientist! → Show notes, links & more *** Thanks so much for listening, we really hope you enjoyed the show! If you found this episode valuable, please help us spread the word by subscribing to the podcast and giving us a 5-star review. And if you have any questions, comments or suggestions, please get in touch using the links below, we would love to hear from you! Instagram LinkedIn Coaching, newsletter, website & more! If you prefer to watch the show, our episodes are available on YouTube too.

    1h 31m

About

A platform dedicated to helping young people broaden their career horizons through insightful, inspiring and empowering conversations with experts in their fields. Our hope is that by sharing conversations like this with you, we can demystify careers that may be confusing, give you access to careers that may seem out of reach and expose you to careers that may be invisible. By doing so, we aim to help you broaden your career horizons and discover your professional potential. Ready to explore limitless possibilities? Tune in now and embark on your journey of career discovery! www.thecareerdiscoverypodcast.com