The Next-Level Paycheck

Linda Cureton
  • 4.8 (5)
  • CAREERS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

The go-to podcast for experienced mid-level professionals who’ve hit their income ceiling but are ready to break through and thrive. If you’re a high-level administrator or analyst with 13-20 years of experience earning $70K-$80K and craving authentic, faith-integrated guidance, you’re in the right place. Each week, we deliver practical career development strategies, mindset shifts, and actionable insights designed to help you overcome career stagnation, build multiple income streams, and unlock your full potential—all without sacrificing your true self.

  1. Why Some Talentless People Still Succeed — and What You Should Do

    5D AGO

    Why Some Talentless People Still Succeed — and What You Should Do

    Do you ever wonder why some people succeed without talent, skills, or character? In this real and powerful message, I break down the difference between temporary success and eternal significance. From Psalms 37 to real-life career pivots, she shares how: Not all success is built to last Impact matters more than image The job you don’t want might be your biggest blessing God can redirect your path to something greater She speaks candidly about rejecting a coaching contract — only to have it become the foundation of her company’s success. This is your reminder to stay faithful, humble, and open to divine redirection. 🙏🏾 Your job is to level up your skills. God's job is the outcome. 💡 Subscribe for more leadership insights, faith-based motivation, and real talk from the executive frontlines. 👇 Start now with the assessment: Take $2000 Leadership Growth Assessment - https://dvjkmswy.formester.com/f/kxISU2H1HJoin 7 day Leadership Sprint - https://nblnhiao.formester.com/f/fgBS17zPAStart 21 day Leadership Acceleration Series - https://dvjkmswy.formester.com/f/dyHbzaC1HFree Ebooks Resource Hub - https://lindacureton.com/hub/ 00:00 – Why talent isn’t always tied to success 00:38 – Do these skills actually work? 01:26 – Psalms 37: Don’t envy temporary success 02:05 – Playing the long game: character > fame 03:01 – A “talentless” sermon that stayed with me for 20 years 04:05 – I didn’t want to be a coach… until I had no choice 05:06 – The contract I said “yes” to by accident 05:33 – That “small” contract unlocked everything SEO - faith and success, leveling up skills, purpose over paycheck, god’s timing, career purpose, divine redirection, faith-based leadership, talentless success,

    6 min
  2. Why You Keep Procrastinating (and How to Stop)

    JAN 10

    Why You Keep Procrastinating (and How to Stop)

    Are you stuck in the loop of procrastination, unfulfilled dreams, or spiritual misalignment? In this powerful video, we explore how courage, alignment, and breaking procrastination patterns can shift your life trajectory. 🔥 Highlights: The hidden truth behind procrastination and how stress is the root cause. Courage to dream again and plan beyond fear. Faith, loss, and aligning with God's will after personal heartbreak. How physical goals like strengthening your core can lead to life transformation. Real talk on grief, purpose, and rebuilding a new life chapter. 💥 Take the Leadership Assessment Test and unlock your $2,000 Leadership Advantage with coaching and community support. 🎯 Perfect for: Women ready to step into purpose. Those navigating personal loss or change. Faith-driven leaders and aspiring entrepreneurs. 👇 Start now with the assessment Take $2000 Leadership Growth Assessment - https://dvjkmswy.formester.com/f/kxISU2H1H Join 7 day Leadership Sprint - https://nblnhiao.formester.com/f/fgBS17zPA Start 21 day Leadership Acceleration Series - https://dvjkmswy.formester.com/f/dyHbzaC1H Free Ebooks Resource Hub - https://lindacureton.com/hub/ My Leadership Books - https://lindacureton.com/books/ Timestamp 00:00 – The Queen of Procrastination 👑 00:38 – Understanding stress as the root of procrastination 01:11 – Leadership assessment and $2,000 advantage offer 01:46 – 2026 goal-setting mindset 03:06 – Focus words: Courage, Procrastination, Alignment 04:00 – Courage to dream and act beyond fear 05:13 – Financial and spiritual outcome-based goals 06:27 – Physical goal: Strengthening the core 07:08 – Procrastination vs. productivity: Breaking the cycle 08:49 – Superwoman syndrome and its consequences 09:50 – Alignment with God’s will explained 11:15 – Prayer, loss, and trust after losing a loved one 13:11 – How meditation helps you hear God’s voice 14:29 – Faith vs. lying to yourself 15:21 – Final reflection: Courage, Procrastination, Alignment 15:39 – African proverb: Go far together 15:55 – Final invitation: Leadership test & coaching support

    16 min
  3. How I Lost My Dream Job at NASA — and Got It Back 25 Years Later

    JAN 3

    How I Lost My Dream Job at NASA — and Got It Back 25 Years Later

    What if the dream you thought you left behind came back when you least expected it? In this powerful video, I share my journey of how I walked away from my dream job at NASA to support a relationship, only to return 25 years later—stronger, wiser, and more determined. This story isn’t just about career progression, it's about perseverance, believing in your worth, and daring to dream even when life doesn't go as planned. Take $2000 Leadership Growth Assessment - https://dvjkmswy.formester.com/f/kxISU2H1H Join 7 day Leadership Sprint - https://nblnhiao.formester.com/f/fgBS17zPA Start 21 day Leadership Acceleration Series - https://dvjkmswy.formester.com/f/dyHbzaC1H Free Ebooks Resource Hub - https://lindacureton.com/hub/ My Leadership Books - https://lindacureton.com/books/ ✨ Learn why it’s never too late to: Reclaim your purpose Pursue your dream job Rise into executive leadership Embrace the courage to start again 👩🏽‍💻 Plus, I share how taking one small leadership assessment changed everything. Ready to level up your career? 📌 Take the Leadership Test Now → [insert link]📲 Join the community and gain access to personal coaching worth $2000! 00:00 – The job listing that changed everything 00:57 – FREE leadership test that could change your life 01:30 – Why I didn’t want a job (at first!) 02:07 – How NASA recruited me in a gymnasium 02:54 – Leaving my dream job for love 03:34 – Returning to D.C. and rebuilding 04:28 – 25 years later, back at NASA 05:23 – The power of daring to dream 06:09 – Courage and waiting for the right opportunity 06:35 – Final message: You deserve to rise NASA job story, career comeback, dream job at NASA, women in leadership, executive coaching, STEM careers, how to get hired at NASA, motivational career story, leadership development, Black women in tech

    7 min
  4. How to Restart Your Career After 40 (Without Starting Over).

    12/26/2025

    How to Restart Your Career After 40 (Without Starting Over).

    If you've ever thought, "I'm too old to start over," this message is for you. In this powerful video, we talk about how career reinvention after 40 is not only possible, it might be your best move yet. You'll hear real experiences, advice on mastering soft skills, the power of self-awareness, and how to build a strategy for success beyond the traditional timeline. Whether you're considering a new career path, leadership opportunity, or business venture—this is your sign to go for it. 👩🏾‍💼 I reinvented my career at 54. I earned a PhD at 66. Your time is not up. It’s just getting started. Take the leadership assessment mentioned 💬 Share in the comments: What dream are you still holding onto? Take $2000 Leadership Growth Assessment - https://dvjkmswy.formester.com/f/kxISU2H1H Join 7 day Leadership Sprint - https://nblnhiao.formester.com/f/fgBS17zPA Start 21 day Leadership Acceleration Series - https://dvjkmswy.formester.com/f/dyHbzaC1H Free Ebooks Resource Hub - https://lindacureton.com/hub/ My Leadership Books - https://lindacureton.com/books/ 00:00 – Is it too late to grow your career at 42? 01:09 – Busting the myth: Success belongs to the young 02:20 – Self-awareness and knowing your values 03:39 – Why soft skills are more valuable after 40 04:36 – Real story: Pivoting career at 54 06:06 – Earning a PhD at 66 – and thriving! 06:56 – Career strategy at 40: Control the narrative 08:24 – Visibility, voice & breaking invisibility 09:38 – Soft skills are non-negotiable 10:11 – Make courageous choices & take risks 11:03 – It's your moment – take the leap 12:12 – Leadership advantage test invitation #CareerChange #LateBloomers #LeadershipAt40 #NotTooLate #WomenInLeadership #LevelUp career change at 40, too late to start over, leadership after 40, late bloomer success, career reinvention, PhD at 60, soft skills training, emotional intelligence, communication skills, personal growth, professional development,

    13 min
  5. Purpose-Driven Leadership: The Lesson Every Ambitious Leader Learns Too Late

    12/19/2025

    Purpose-Driven Leadership: The Lesson Every Ambitious Leader Learns Too Late

    “A leadership talk on purpose, timing, and surrender — how to lead from faith, not fear.” Are you praying for success but still feel stuck? This powerful talk unpacks how faith, purpose, and ambition intersect—especially for women navigating their next career level. In this video, we explore why aligning with God’s will is key to your next breakthrough, and how walking by faith is a daily practice, not a blind wish. You’ll hear about the speaker’s personal story—how a shift from pre-med to mathematics changed her life, and why she believes that doing what you love is the truest form of success. You'll also get a glimpse into her leadership coaching and what tools she offers women ready for their next-level paycheck. This is for the ambitious woman of faith who’s ready to rise and lead with clarity, integrity, and divine alignment. Take $2000 Leadership Growth Assessment - https://dvjkmswy.formester.com/f/kxISU2H1H Join 7 day Leadership Sprint - https://nblnhiao.formester.com/f/fgBS17zPA Start 21 day Leadership Acceleration Series - https://dvjkmswy.formester.com/f/dyHbzaC1H Free Ebooks Resource Hub - https://lindacureton.com/hub/ Leadership Books - https://lindacureton.com/books/ [00:00] What are you really asking for in prayer? [01:20] Your next-level paycheck requires career alignment. [02:22] The Latin professor who changed my life forever. [03:36] Walking by faith is a daily practice—not blind trust. [05:12] Why passion is key: how I worked 3 days straight! [06:08] What happens when your prayers don’t get answered? [07:30] Aligning your paycheck with your divine calling. [09:01] Sometimes, the problem is… you (and how mentors help). [09:45] Final invitation: Take the test, join the movement. SEO faith and ambition, walking by faith, God’s will for career, Christian women leadership, next level paycheck, faith in career growth, divine alignment, Christian purpose, success and spirituality, Christian motivation for women, how to hear God’s voice, prayer for career, faith-based success, women in leadership, leadership coaching, Christian coaching for women, #FaithAndCareer #ChristianWomenLeaders #PurposeDrivenSuccess #WalkByFaith #CareerCalling

    10 min
  6. This One Skill 10x’d My Career Forever — and It’s Not Talent

    12/12/2025

    This One Skill 10x’d My Career Forever — and It’s Not Talent

    Are you an introvert who dreads networking events? Do you feel drained, awkward, or unsure how to start conversations? You're not alone — and you're not out of options. In this video, Linda shares her honest, relatable journey from being a reserved INTP to mastering the art of authentic connection. With humor, warmth, and practical tips, Linda shows how introverts can prepare, perform, and even enjoy networking — without pretending to be someone they're not. From practicing scripts to tagging along with extroverted friends, every strategy is one step closer to feeling more confident in professional spaces. 💬 Whether you're new to networking or just want to level up your people skills while staying true to yourself, this talk is packed with real talk, actionable advice, and a gentle reminder that introverts belong in every room too. Take $2000 Leadership Growth Assessment - https://dvjkmswy.formester.com/f/kxISU2H1H Join 7 day Leadership Sprint - https://nblnhiao.formester.com/f/fgBS17zPA Start 21 day Leadership Acceleration Series - https://dvjkmswy.formester.com/f/dyHbzaC1H Free Ebooks Resource Hub - https://lindacureton.com/hub/ Leadership Books - https://lindacureton.com/books/ . . . SEO networking for introverts, introvert networking tips, how to network as an introvert, professional networking advice, introvert career growth, Linda networking story, networking script, introverted leaders, confidence building, networking at events, how to meet new people, overcoming social anxiety, quiet networking strategies, INTP personality, Myers Briggs INTP, networking for shy people, business networking tips, communication skills, networking presentation, social skills for introverts, relationship building, introvert leadership,

    13 min
  7. Fail Forward: The Secret Habit of High-Performing Leaders

    11/28/2025

    Fail Forward: The Secret Habit of High-Performing Leaders

    Growth rarely feels good. In fact, it often feels like rejection, discomfort, or failure. But the truth is: growth starts where comfort ends. In this episode, we unpack what it means to fail forward, how to lead through storms, and why the people who challenge you are often the ones who help you grow the most. 🎯 We cover: Why critics are better than cheerleaders The power of failing on purpose How to move forward during uncertainty A powerful career mindset: "Drop back 10 and punt" How to stay committed when you’re in the middle of your own storm 💬 If you’re in a hard season, this is your reminder: don’t stop here. Invest in yourself — especially now. ✨ Want to go further? Join the Growth Leadership Community on WhatsApp for: 21-Day Leadership Accelerator Weekly coaching & mentorship Career tools, mindset training, and live support 🔗 Scan the QR in the video or [insert link] — and take your next step. TIME STAMPS 00:00 – You don’t need cheerleaders, you need critics 01:24 – Growth happens in discomfort, not ease 02:50 – “Trying” is delaying — start doing 04:15 – Why I applied knowing I’d fail 05:50 – “Drop back 10 and punt” explained 07:15 – How to grow during a storm 08:43 – This is the time to invest in you SEO Keywords (30 in one line) fail forward, growth mindset, how to grow during storms, career growth tips, leadership in hard times, critics not cheerleaders, get comfortable being uncomfortable, professional development, how to lead with courage, motivational podcast, personal growth advice, leadership podcast, mindset shift for success, storm season growth, self investment, leadership accelerator, career comeback, how to handle failure, job interview mindset, emotional resilience, career clarity,

    8 min
  8. The 5 Leadership Habits That Changed My Life

    11/21/2025

    The 5 Leadership Habits That Changed My Life

    What does it really take to reach your next level? In this raw, practical, and inspiring video, we unpack what separates average effort from extraordinary growth. You’ll learn the exact mindset shifts and action steps needed to stop playing small — and start building a life that aligns with your potential. From feeling uncomfortable, to failing forward, to getting hired at NASA through grit and stretch moves — this story is full of hard-earned lessons you can start applying today. 🔑 In This Video You’ll Learn: Why critics are more valuable than cheerleaders How discomfort is your training ground The #1 myth keeping most people average Real stories of failing forward to career breakthroughs Why “trying” is killing your momentum How to invest in your future self — even during hard times ✨ Ready for your breakthrough?Join the free WhatsApp growth community and get access to: The 21-Day Leadership Acceleration Series Weekly live coaching & mentorship Worksheets, resources & growth tools 🔗 Scan the QR or tap the link to get started — one breakthrough at a time. Open this link to join my WhatsApp Group: https://chat.whatsapp.com/BUsiR5pvJuBI8WldLwbRC3 Timestamps 00:00 – Critics vs Cheerleaders: Why You Need the Tough Voices 01:23 – Get Uncomfortable If You Want to Grow 02:53 – The “Tight Shoes” Analogy: Stretching Into New Levels 04:16 – Doing What’s Easy Won’t Take You Far 05:30 – IBM, Fortran & How I Ended Up at NASA 06:54 – “I’m Trying…” Is Holding You Back 07:55 – The Time I Failed on Purpose (and Why) 09:11 – What to Do When You’re in a Storm 10:09 – Investing in Yourself During Uncertainty 11:07 – Join the Leadership Acceleration Cohort (Your Next Step)

    12 min
See All (29)

Ratings & Reviews

4.8
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

The go-to podcast for experienced mid-level professionals who’ve hit their income ceiling but are ready to break through and thrive. If you’re a high-level administrator or analyst with 13-20 years of experience earning $70K-$80K and craving authentic, faith-integrated guidance, you’re in the right place. Each week, we deliver practical career development strategies, mindset shifts, and actionable insights designed to help you overcome career stagnation, build multiple income streams, and unlock your full potential—all without sacrificing your true self.

Information

  • Creator
    Linda Cureton
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    29
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Linda Cureton
  • Show Website
    The Next-Level Paycheck

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