Career Unicorns - Spark Your Joy

Samorn Selim
  • 5.0 (76)
  • CAREERS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

I’m Samorn Selim. Welcome to the Career Unicorns - Spark Your Joy Podcast. I’m a lawyer turned career coach on a mission for us to take our careers from dread to joy. Growing up as the daughter of poor Lao refugees, I was the underdog. Against all odds, I made it to a top 10 law school and landed a job in Big Law. As an outsider, I was told that I was lucky to even be there and that I had to pay my dues. After coaching over 1,000 clients, I now realize that the idea that you have to pay your dues and work in a toxic place is a myth. We can face our challenges head on, do work we are passionate about, and work with good people to make a big impact. So even as we struggle, we can find a sense of belonging.

  1. 2D AGO

    Reclaiming Your Power: How Trauma, Social Justice, And Systemic Gaslighting Impact Your Career And Self-Worth with Rosie Yeung (Ep. 192)

    Ready to shatter the old-school corporate rules? In this powerful episode of Career Unicorns - Spark Your Joy, host Samorn Selim welcomes back Rosie Yeung, a Certified Trauma Recovery Coach, HR Leader, and Chartered Professional Accountant. Rosie, a Chinese-Canadian, immigrant, cis-het woman living with mental illness and recovering from cPTSD (complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder), shares her deeply personal journey of navigating identity, assimilation, and complex trauma. In this episode, we dive deep into: The ripple effects of trauma, including gender bias, systemic racism, psychological unsafety, and gaslighting that is often baked into the modern workplace. How seemingly "good people" can perpetuate harmful systems and why traditional career advice often fails marginalized individuals. Why the problem isn't you, but it's the system, and what you can do to protect your mental health. How to anchor in your body, name your truth, and step into your worth, even when the corporate structure is working against you. The Un-Executive Coaching™ approach, a practice that sits at the intersection of social justice, trauma, and career growth. The importance of having the permission and power to name your truth. The fact that you are never responsible for someone else's bad behaviors or the failings of a toxic system. Connect with us: Learn more about our guest, Rosie Yeung, at https://changinglenses.ca/ and on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/rosieyeung/.  Follow our host, Samorn Selim, on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/samornselim/. Get a copy of Samorn’s book, Career Unicorns™ 90-Day 5-Minute Gratitude Journal: An Easy & Proven Way To Cultivate Mindfulness, Beat Burnout & Find Career Joy, at https://tinyurl.com/49xdxrz8.  Ready for a career change?  Schedule a free 30-minute build your dream career consult by sending a message at www.careerunicorns.com.

    50 min

  2. OCT 8

    Beyond Survival: Dyanna Volek's Call for Collective Action Against Apathy and Anti-Asian Hate (Ep. 191)

    Get ready for a profound and powerful conversation with the incredible Dyanna Volek, a quintessential "Career Unicorn" who is using her voice and influence to push for real change. As a first-generation college student and daughter of Filipino immigrants, Dyanna currently serves as the Manager of Government Affairs for the San Francisco International Airport. She’s also a licensed attorney and a dedicated community advocate, including serving on the Board of Directors for Planned Parenthood, Northern California.   In this episode, Dyanna issues a call for collective action, getting candid about the despair and apathy she sees in the current political climate and offering concrete ways we can use our spheres of influence to fight back.   Disclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are solely those of Luke Liss and the host, and do not represent the views of any referenced organizations.   In this episode, we dive deep into: A guide on how to use local politics to effect positive change and tap into your spheres of influence. The trauma, frustration, and emotional labor of dealing with Anti-Asian Hate and being a woman of color in leadership. The urgent need to address systemic injustice and the breakdown of civility in public discourse. Navigating DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) during challenging political times and what you can do to create a culture of inclusion. Key strategies on how to sustain your energy, set boundaries, and find what "fills your cup" so you can continue the fight for decency and justice without burning out.   Connect with us: Learn more about our guest, Dyanna Volek, on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/dyannavolek/ and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/dyannaluna/ - @dyannaluna. Follow our host, Samorn Selim, on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/samornselim/. Get a copy of Samorn’s book, Career Unicorns™ 90-Day 5-Minute Gratitude Journal: An Easy & Proven Way To Cultivate Mindfulness, Beat Burnout & Find Career Joy, at https://tinyurl.com/49xdxrz8.  Ready for a career change?  Schedule a free 30-minute build your dream career consult by sending a message at www.careerunicorns.com.

    48 min

  3. OCT 1

    From Sunday Scaries To Love Mondays: Ron Monteiro on How to Break Free from Systemic Barriers, Find Your Authentic Voice, and Create the Career You Love (Ep. 190)

    In this inspiring and candid conversation, we sit down with Ron Monteiro, author of Love Mondays, to discuss his 20-year journey from a shy finance professional to a powerful public speaker and executive coach. Ron shares how he turned a perceived weakness in public speaking into his life's mission.   We dive into the challenges he faced as a person of color navigating corporate finance, offering a powerful perspective on how to tackle systemic barriers by focusing on what you can control: your daily growth, your commitment to learning, and the commitment to "put in the reps."   Whether you're struggling with toxic work, aiming for executive presence, or grieving a derailed career path, Ron's wisdom on self-investment and finding mentors will give you the tools and courage to move forward and, eventually, Love Mondays.   Key Takeaways How to turn your weakness into your strength. The importance of taking small, actionable steps to achieve your big goals. The secret to building your confidence. How to navigate systemic barriers and the power of surrounding yourself with people who believe in you. What you can do to build executive presence and take up space in a room. Why it’s important to acknowledge injustice and how to use it as fuel for driving change. The power of Ikigai and why investing in yourself leads to more freedom. Advice for those who feel lost and scared after an unexpected career change.   Connect with us: Learn more about our guest, Ron Monteiro, on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronmonteiro18/ and grab a copy of Love Mondays at https://tinyurl.com/2eed99yj.  Follow our host, Samorn Selim, on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/samornselim/. Get a copy of Samorn’s book, Career Unicorns™ 90-Day 5-Minute Gratitude Journal: An Easy & Proven Way To Cultivate Mindfulness, Beat Burnout & Find Career Joy, at https://tinyurl.com/49xdxrz8.  Ready for a career change?  Schedule a free 30-minute build your dream career consult by sending a message at www.careerunicorns.com.

    49 min

  4. SEP 24

    Lessons from Bad Bosses: Navigating Workplace Bullying, Microaggressions & DEI With Mita Mallick, WSJ Bestselling Author & DEI Leader (Ep. 189)

    What if a childhood trauma followed you into the boardroom? In this powerful episode, Wall Street Journal bestselling author and DEI leader Mita Mallick shares the story of her long hair being burned as a “joke” when she was a little girl. She thought bullying ended on the playground, but learned the painful truth that bullies follow you into Corporate America. Mita, a top LinkedIn Voice and contributor for Harvard Business Review, has built her brand by tackling tough topics head-on. She joins us to share insights from her two bestselling books, including her latest, The Devil Emails at Midnight: What Good Leaders Can Learn From Bad Bosses. Key Takeaways: How to spot a toxic boss and understand their impact on your career. The surprising link between being a bad boss and becoming a great leader. How to handle microaggressions like having your name changed by colleagues and reclaim your identity. Strategies for navigating pregnancy discrimination and theft of your ideas in the workplace. The secret to building a culture of integrity and accountability. Practical ways to recover from burnout and find work-life balance. Connect with us: Learn more about our guest, Mita Mallick, on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/mita-mallick-2b165822/ and https://www.mitamallick.com/. Follow our host, Samorn Selim, on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/samornselim/. Get a copy of Samorn’s book, Career Unicorns™ 90-Day 5-Minute Gratitude Journal: An Easy & Proven Way To Cultivate Mindfulness, Beat Burnout & Find Career Joy, at https://tinyurl.com/49xdxrz8.  Ready for a career change?  Schedule a free 30-minute build your dream career consult by sending a message at www.careerunicorns.com.

    48 min

  5. SEP 17

    How to get your first in-house job and advocate for DEI with Lisa Mak, Senior Employment Counsel at Flynn Group (Ep. 188)

    Are you looking to make a career pivot from private practice to your first legal in-house job?    But you’re struggling because most employers already want someone who has in-house experience?   Then this episode with Lisa Mak is for you.  Lisa Mak shares her journey from how she went from a plaintiff-side litigator to landing her dream job as Senior Employment Counsel at Flynn Group, the largest restaurant franchise operator in the U.S., with a portfolio of brands including Applebee’s, Wendy’s, Taco Bell, and Panera. Lisa also serves as the Northern California Regional Governor for the National Asian Pacific American Bar Association (NAPABA) and also served as the President of the Asian American Bar Association of the Greater Bay Area in 2022.   In this episode, we dive deep into: The key strategies you can use to help you make a career pivot. What you can do to cultivate a growth mindset to help you push through a challenging job market.   How you can get clarity about your values and advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in challenging times. What you can do to recover from burnout and have hope during dark times.   Connect with us: Learn more about Lisa Mak on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisapmak/.  Follow Samorn on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/samornselim/. Get a copy of Samorn’s book, Career Unicorns™ 90-Day 5-Minute Gratitude Journal: An Easy & Proven Way To Cultivate Mindfulness, Beat Burnout & Find Career Joy, at https://tinyurl.com/49xdxrz8.  Schedule a free 30-minute build your dream career consult by sending Career Unicorns a message at www.careerunicorns.com.

    39 min

  6. SEP 10

    Career Success & Visibility for Women of Color With Cynthia Pong, CEO Of Embrace Change (Ep. 187)

    Join us for an empowering conversation with Cynthia Pong, the award-winning founder of Embrace Change. A Forbes contributor and LinkedIn Top Voice, Cynthia is a leading expert on career advancement for women of color. Her award-winning work has been featured in HBR, Forbes, The Atlantic, and on major networks like NBC, CBS, and NPR. Her book, Don’t Stay in Your Lane: The Career Change Guide for Women of Color, is a must-read for anyone seeking to advance their career.  In this episode, we dive deep into how to navigate systemic barriers, leverage your unique strengths, and build a career that truly empowers you. Key Takeaways: Navigating systemic racism and barriers women of color face. Understanding how the "Model Minority" Myth to pit people of color against each other. Managing economic realities in a world of tariffs and AI. Creating visibility and a personal brand. Having agency in your career by telling your story. Setting healthy boundaries and protecting your energy to thrive in challenging times. Connect with us: Learn more about Cynthia Pong at http://embracechange.nyc/, https://www.forbes.com/sites/cynthiapong/, and https://www.embracechange.nyc/ec-collective. Follow Samorn on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/samornselim/. Get a copy of Samorn’s book, Career Unicorns™ 90-Day 5-Minute Gratitude Journal: An Easy & Proven Way To Cultivate Mindfulness, Beat Burnout & Find Career Joy, at https://tinyurl.com/49xdxrz8.  Schedule a free 30-minute build your dream career consult by sending a message at www.careerunicorns.com.

    43 min

  7. SEP 3

    The Confidence Blueprint: Key Strategies for Women in Leadership with Sheena Yap Chan, Wall Street Journal Bestselling Author (Ep. 186)

    In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Sheena Yap Chan, a keynote speaker, an award-winning podcast host, and author of the Wall Street Journal Bestselling author of The Tao Of Self Confidence and Bridging The Confidence Gap. Sheena shares her personal journey, from overcoming a lack of representation as a young Filipino immigrant to becoming a best-selling author. This episode provides a powerful roadmap for any woman looking to build confidence and take on a leadership role. Join us as we explore the blueprint to empowered leadership, including: The power of representation and how it shapes our career paths and self-perception. Overcoming imposter syndrome, a common struggle that affects a staggering number of women in the workplace. The urgency for women in leadership and the systemic barriers we face today. Why self-promotion is a vital tool, not a "tacky" one, for women seeking visibility and growth. Taking bold action and saying "yes" to opportunities, even when you only feel 50% ready. Navigating the unique burden and expectations placed on women of color in professional spaces. Using your voice to create purpose and drive meaningful change in your community and beyond. Connect with us: Learn more about Sheena Yap Chan on at  https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheenayapchan/ and https://www.sheenayapchan.com/.  Follow Samorn on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/samornselim/. Get a copy of Samorn’s book, Career Unicorns™ 90-Day 5-Minute Gratitude Journal: An Easy & Proven Way To Cultivate Mindfulness, Beat Burnout & Find Career Joy, at https://tinyurl.com/49xdxrz8.  Schedule a free 30-minute build your dream career consult by sending a message at www.careerunicorns.com.

    44 min

  8. JUN 6

    Thriving in corporate America as a Black man and first-generation college grad with Jaymon Ballew, Senior Counsel at The Major League Soccer (Ep. 185)

    This week, I’m so excited to share a podcast with one of my former clients, Jaymon Ballew.  Jaymon is Senior Counsel for The Major League Soccer and a first-generation college and professional graduate.  He shares his experiences navigating corporate America as a Black man, the importance of understanding the unwritten rules of the professional world, and how our work together helped him get clarity and land his dream job in sports.    In this podcast, we do a deep dive into: How to reconnect with your true passions when you feel lost. How to build support networks and mentors who can provide guidance and validation and help you navigate the unwritten rules of corporate America.   Why preparing and doing mock interviews is critical to success.   How to transition from law firm practice to your first in-house role. Why it’s important to have an open mindset to pursuing opportunities even if it means taking a different career path. What you can do to confidently negotiate your worth. How you can prepare to navigate predominantly White spaces when you’re a Black man. The importance of prioritizing mental health and how to recover from burnout.   Connect with us: Learn more about Jaymon on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaymonballew/ or instagram @thej.ball. Follow Samorn on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/samornselim/. Get a copy of Samorn’s book, “Belonging: Self Love Lessons From A Workaholic Depressed Insomniac Lawyer” at https://tinyurl.com/2dk5hr2f.  Get weekly career tips by signing up for our advice column at www.careerunicorns.com.  Schedule a free 30-minute build your dream career consult by sending a message at www.careerunicorns.com.

    48 min
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5
out of 5
76 Ratings

About

I’m Samorn Selim. Welcome to the Career Unicorns - Spark Your Joy Podcast. I’m a lawyer turned career coach on a mission for us to take our careers from dread to joy. Growing up as the daughter of poor Lao refugees, I was the underdog. Against all odds, I made it to a top 10 law school and landed a job in Big Law. As an outsider, I was told that I was lucky to even be there and that I had to pay my dues. After coaching over 1,000 clients, I now realize that the idea that you have to pay your dues and work in a toxic place is a myth. We can face our challenges head on, do work we are passionate about, and work with good people to make a big impact. So even as we struggle, we can find a sense of belonging.

Information

  • Creator
    Samorn Selim
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2025
  • Episodes
    100
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright Samorn Selim 2021 All Rights Reserved
  • Show Website
    Career Unicorns - Spark Your Joy

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