Launch Career Strategies

Karen Elders
  • 4.8 (18)
  • Careers
  • Updated Bimonthly

This podcast is all about young professionals and their careers. College students or those first years into your career. Sit in on conversations with hiring managers and professionals of all levels who’ve found success across a variety of industries. Hear from professionals at Fortune 500 companies to start-ups. What has helped them stand out and be successful in their careers? How have they networked? How did their undergrad studies and internships shape the path they chose? Did they stay on their original path or take a few detours? We’ll also cover topics around personal finances and budgeting, company culture, diversity, and really anything that seems relevant to twenty-somethings and their career. Hosted by Karen Elders of Launch Career Strategies.

  1. 2d ago

    The Playbook for Breaking Into Tech Sales | Anna Stein's Journey from ADR to Account Executive

    From the Field to the Sales Floor | How College Athletics Prepares You for a Career in Sales What does it take for a college athlete to thrive in a competitive sales career? In this episode, we sit down with Anna Stein, Account Executive on the MuleSoft Financial Services team at Salesforce, to find out. Anna took a classic path - starting as an Account Development Representative and earning promotions to Senior ADR and then AE - and she shares what it actually took to make those moves. A four-year starter and captain at Lafayette College, Anna draws a direct line between her experience as a Division I lacrosse player and her success in sales. From being coachable and competitive to having tough conversations with managers (just like with coaches), the parallels are real and practical. She even compares reviewing recorded sales calls with her manager to watching game film - a habit that's paid off. Anna also opens up about the job search process: how she used networking and LinkedIn to prepare for interviews, why over-preparing is non-negotiable, and what externship programs taught her before she even graduated. She shares candid advice on getting promoted, building mentor relationships, leveraging AI for meeting prep without losing the human touch, and giving yourself grace when rejections don't go your way. If you're a current or former athlete figuring out your next move, Anna's story is a reminder that the skills that made you great on the field can absolutely carry you forward. PS Don't forget to check out Prospect HQ - Prospect HQ helps college athletes and former college athletes turn their athletic experience into internships, jobs, and professional connections by combining networking, athlete-focused recruiting, and video-based personal branding. Essentially - LinkedIn plus a career center, but designed specifically for athletes transitioning from sports to the professional world LAUNCH Career Strategies was founded by Karen Elders and Elyse Spalding. We help young professionals launch a successful career path with expert coaching services.  Reach out today for an initial FREE coaching session. LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook

    32 min

  2. May 15

    Breaking Into Finance: The Buy Side, Sell Side, and Everything In Between | Guest: JD DeGulis

    JD DeGulis, President and Portfolio Manager at Soundshore Management, joins host Karen to discuss navigating a career in finance. Soundshore is a long-only, value-focused boutique managing roughly 35 concentrated positions, with about two-thirds of assets coming from institutional clients like pensions and endowments. JD's core advice for young people entering finance centers on two big decisions: understanding where you fall on the analytical-versus-sales spectrum, and broadening your search beyond the well-known names. He emphasizes that selling is far more pervasive on Wall Street than most people expect - even roles in banking and private equity are largely about persuasion and relationship-building. He also encourages candidates to explore smaller and mid-size firms, where opportunity and compensation are often comparable to the big banks. On AI, JD is direct: get in and start using it now. He sees a real advantage for younger professionals who can not only use AI tools fluently but also explain them to senior colleagues who are less familiar. He recommends building your own agents, running repeated experiments over time, and using AI to prepare thoroughly for networking conversations and interviews. The conversation also touches on the importance of intellectual curiosity - following industries and stocks you genuinely care about, going deep on resources like the Acquired podcast and Farnam Street, and reading consistently every day. JD closes with a reminder that the investment business demands accountability; the market gives you clear, unforgiving feedback, and being willing to pitch an idea, be wrong, and learn from it is exactly what separates candidates who stand out from those who don't. A few of the reading/listening resources that JD suggested: Digital news mainstays: Wall Street Journal and WSJ What's News Podcast (short episodes 2x/day)The New York TimesBloombergPodcastsFarnam Street - Newsletter and Farnam Street’s The Knowledge Project Podcast by topic (Business & Leadership, Wealth & Investing, etc) All In podcastColossus Business Breakdowns podcast - HERE is the episode with JD DeGulis discussing Vistra Corp. and the rapid evolution of the renewables industryAcquired podcast - Incredible, you can search for in-depth conversations by topicResources for learning AIAnthropic AcademyCoursera - LAUNCH Career Strategies was founded by Karen Elders and Elyse Spalding. We help young professionals launch a successful career path with expert coaching services.  Reach out today for an initial FREE coaching session. LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook

    34 min
  3. Investment Banking to Startup Founder: Emma Pratt’s Career Pivot

    Mar 31

    Investment Banking to Startup Founder: Emma Pratt’s Career Pivot

    In this episode of Top of the Pile from Launch Career Strategies, host Karen Elders sits down with Emma Pratt, co-founder of Girl Math Capital, to talk about building a career in finance, taking smart career risks, and making investing more accessible for women. Emma shares her path from Vanderbilt University to starting her career in leveraged finance at Bank of America, where she built a strong foundation in financial analysis, deal work, and evaluating businesses across industries. She then moved to Uber to work in strategic finance and M&A, helping drive smarter financial decisions and cost efficiencies across the business. The conversation also dives into the story behind Girl Math Capital - an investing community Emma co-founded with friends to help women learn about alternative investing in a supportive, judgment-free environment. What started as a small group quickly grew into a platform offering education, deal flow, events, and a network for women interested in venture, angel, and real estate investing. Emma also shares advice for students and young professionals on preparing for competitive finance roles and building the confidence to make bold career moves. If you’re curious about careers in finance, alternative investing, or building something of your own, this episode is full of practical insights and inspiration. LAUNCH Career Strategies was founded by Karen Elders and Elyse Spalding. We help young professionals launch a successful career path with expert coaching services.  Reach out today for an initial FREE coaching session. LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook

    28 min

  4. Feb 12

    Stand Out in Your Job Search with Storytelling Expert Aaron Calafato

    Hiring managers don't remember resumes - they remember stories In this episode of Top of the Pile, Karen sits down with storytelling expert and narrative strategist Aaron Calafato to talk about why storytelling isn’t just a “nice to have” skill - it’s essential to standing out in today’s job market. Aaron has helped brands like Indeed, Glassdoor, and Palo Alto Networks build trust through story-driven content, and he brings those same principles into the job search and interview process. Aaron is the creator and host of the award-winning 7 Minute Stories podcast, which has reached over 30 million listeners, and the co-creator and co-host of Glassdoor’s The Lonely Office. He also serves as an audio growth strategist for State of Mind, one of Apple’s leading mental health podcasts. Together, we break down the difference between simply having conversations versus telling intentional stories, and why most job seekers struggle to clearly communicate their value. We dive into the idea of storycatching — paying attention to your own experiences as they happen — and how self-reflection and self-awareness can help you build short, compelling stories that resonate in interviews and networking conversations. Aaron also explains what a throughline is, why it matters, and how understanding both your own story and a company’s mission can dramatically improve how you show up in interviews. If you’re a college student, recent grad, or early-career professional trying to articulate your strengths, pivot careers, or feel more confident talking about your experience, this episode will give you practical tools to tell better stories — and get remembered for them. LAUNCH Career Strategies was founded by Karen Elders and Elyse Spalding. We help young professionals launch a successful career path with expert coaching services.  Reach out today for an initial FREE coaching session. LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook

    29 min

  5. 09/09/2025

    Guest: Jim Citrin, Best Selling Author & Senior Leader, Spencer Stuart | Standing Out in a Competitive Job Market

    In this episode of Top of the Pile, host Karen Elders sits down with Jim Citrin, one of the nation’s foremost experts on leadership and career success. As leader of Spencer Stuart’s CEO practice, Jim has advised boards and CEOs on more than 850 top leadership searches over the past 25 years. He brings a wealth of experience as a former McKinsey consultant, Goldman Sachs associate, and bestselling author of eight books, including The Career Playbook, which offers invaluable guidance for young professionals navigating the early stages of their careers. Together, Karen and Jim explore the realities of today’s competitive job market, where internship and entry-level acceptance rates at top firms rival Ivy League admissions. Jim shares strategies for standing out among hundreds of applicants, emphasizing the importance of clarity, persistence, and developing what he calls the “career triangle” of job satisfaction, compensation, and lifestyle. The conversation highlights how young professionals can proactively balance these factors throughout their careers. They also dive into practical advice on relationship-building, networking (or as Jim prefers to call it, “authentic connection”), and mastering the art of interviewing. From creating strong first impressions to asking thoughtful, well-researched questions, Jim breaks down the habits that set top candidates apart. Throughout the discussion, both Karen and Jim stress the value of curiosity, resilience, and self-awareness—qualities that help young professionals build momentum early in their careers. This episode is filled with timeless advice, practical strategies, and inspiration for anyone looking to launch their career and stay at the "Top of the Pile". Here are a few links to key items mentioned: The Career Playbook by Jim Citrin Interviewing to live, living to interview, article by Jim Citrin Girl Effect, a non-profit, aims to unlock the power of girls and end poverty globally LAUNCH Career Strategies was founded by Karen Elders and Elyse Spalding. We help young professionals launch a successful career path with expert coaching services.  Reach out today for an initial FREE coaching session. LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook

    37 min

  6. 01/06/2025

    Career Path: Advertising/Digital Media Sales | Guest: Gary Strauss

    In this episode, I sit down with Gary Strauss, a seasoned digital sales professional whose impressive career has spanned groundbreaking moments in the media industry. Gary was a key player in the pioneering days of digital advertising as part of the initial outside sales team at DoubleClick, a company whose acquisition by Google in 2008 was pivotal to shaping the tech giant’s dominance in the ad tech space.  Gary’s career highlights include being part of two companies that went public and contributing to successful acquisitions, one of which culminated in a sale to Epic Games—the creators of Fortnite. Most recently, he led Business Development at Kidoodle TV, a free, kid-safe streaming service featuring premium content such as Dude Perfect. Throughout our conversation, Gary shares invaluable insights on building a fulfilling and impactful career in sales. He underscores the importance of preparation, persistence, and adaptability in the face of challenges, offering practical advice for navigating the professional landscape. Key takeaways include:  • Sales as a career path: It’s not just about selling a product but solving problems and building trust. Likeability and strong client relationships are the cornerstone of success.  • Entrepreneurial spirit in sales: Sales professionals often run their own “mini-business” within larger organizations, making it an ideal path for those with a knack for innovation and initiative.  • Career strategies: Take jobs for the education, not just the paycheck. Understand the company culture, and choose environments that nurture talent and align with your goals. • Giving back:  Gary shares his involvement with the amazing Tom Deierlein Foundation. To learn more, click here TDFoundation.org Whether you’re exploring sales as a career or looking for inspiration on how to grow professionally, Gary’s story and advice will leave you motivated and ready to tackle your goals! LAUNCH Career Strategies was founded by Karen Elders and Elyse Spalding. We help young professionals launch a successful career path with expert coaching services.  Reach out today for an initial FREE coaching session. LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook

    23 min

  7. 09/04/2024

    Career Advice from Brian Lawler, Senior Sales Manager, Amazon Ads

    In this episode, I'm thrilled to welcome Brian Lawler, a Senior Sales Manager, Amazon Ads with an impressive career in the advertising industry. Brian has held senior roles at top companies, including LinkedIn, AOL, DoubleClick, and News Corp, and has spent over seven years at Amazon. Known for his exceptional sales skills and leadership qualities, Brian is highly respected by customers and colleagues alike. A proud graduate of Providence College with a degree in Marketing, Brian is passionate about developing and mentoring emerging talent. In our conversation, he shares his personal work experiences and learnings that listeners can apply to their own careers, including: Interview Preparation: Learn how to align with a company's mission and values, and prepare for behavioral interviews using the STARR method to articulate your story and impact (plus, learn what the extra "R" is for!)Continuous Learning: Discover the importance of understanding the deeper purpose of your role and how to expand your skill set, while adopting the "raising the bar" mentality and embracing feedback as a gift.The Magic Loop: Brian explains this concept developed by Ethan Evans, emphasizing the importance of performing your job well, supporting your manager's success, and aligning your contributions with your career goals.Amazon Leadership Principles: Gain insights into key principles established by Jeff Bezos, including the importance of speed, curiosity, grit, and earning trust, and how these can influence your career trajectory.Whether you’re looking to enhance your interview skills or navigate your career path, this episode with Brian Lawler is packed with practical advice and inspiration. Tune in to learn from one of the best in the business! Links to amazing books mentioned in this episode: Radical Candor by Kim Scott (and here Kim breaks it down on YouTube) The Algebra of Happiness by Scott Galloway The Algebra of Wealth by Scott Galloway LAUNCH Career Strategies was founded by Karen Elders and Elyse Spalding. We help young professionals launch a successful career path with expert coaching services.  Reach out today for an initial FREE coaching session. LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook

    1h 1m

  8. 07/09/2024

    Career Path: Tech Sales | Meet Teddy Fuller, Account Executive, Oracle NetSuite

    Meet Teddy Fuller, Account Executive with Oracle NetSuite. Teddy is a 2021 graduate of the University of Denver and has spent the past 2.5+ years selling for NetSuite. Teddy shares his experience breaking into a top tech sales team. Hear about the undergrad courses and skills he developed that helped him get his first role as a BDR (Business Development Representative) and make the jump to an AE role.  Learn about the interview process and the day-to-day of a BDR and AE. Plus, other career path options to take the BDR experience.  This episode is chock full of career advice and direction for anyone interested in tech and/or sales.  LAUNCH Career Strategies was founded by Karen Elders and Elyse Spalding. We help young professionals launch a successful career path with expert coaching services.  Reach out today for an initial FREE coaching session. LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook

    33 min
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4.8
out of 5
18 Ratings

About

This podcast is all about young professionals and their careers. College students or those first years into your career. Sit in on conversations with hiring managers and professionals of all levels who’ve found success across a variety of industries. Hear from professionals at Fortune 500 companies to start-ups. What has helped them stand out and be successful in their careers? How have they networked? How did their undergrad studies and internships shape the path they chose? Did they stay on their original path or take a few detours? We’ll also cover topics around personal finances and budgeting, company culture, diversity, and really anything that seems relevant to twenty-somethings and their career. Hosted by Karen Elders of Launch Career Strategies.

Information

  • Creator
    Karen Elders
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    42
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Launch Career Strategies
  • Show Website
    Launch Career Strategies