Inside the Promotion Room

Courtney O'Connell

Inside the Promotion Room is a career advancement and leadership podcast for corporate professionals who want to get ahead. Because, there's a conversation happening right now in a room somewhere in your company about who's getting promoted next, and you're not in the room. Most people never are. Inside the Promotion Room is the show that changes that. Every week, host Courtney O'Connell (a former Fortune 500 SVP and Head of HR with 23 years inside corporate America) sits down with senior leaders, executives, and career trailblazers to pull back the curtain on what really happens when talent gets assessed, careers get made, and promotions get decided. This isn't a show about working harder. It's a show about working smarter and understanding the unwritten rules that separate high performers who plateau from the ones who rise. Each episode goes inside the real stories: the pivotal moments, the relationships that changed everything, the mistakes that almost derailed great careers, and the hard-won wisdom that most leaders only share behind closed doors. What you'll hear every week: → How leaders actually climbed the ladder (and not the polished version - We go deep!) → What decision-makers are really looking for in up-and-coming talent → The role of executive presence, visibility, and reputation in getting ahead at work → How successful people navigated setbacks, politics, and work-life reality → The conversations that happen in rooms you're not in and how to make sure your reputation is clear and deliberate Inside the Promotion Room is for every high-achieving leader who is ready to become the undeniable choice for that next big opportunity.

Episodes

  1. 15h ago

    The Leadership Skills AI Can Never Replace With Former CIO Michael Kubit

    What if the biggest thing holding you back from your next promotion isn't your technical skills… but how people experience you as a leader? Today's guest is Michael Kubit, former Chief Information Officer and executive leader with decades of experience building teams, leading transformation, and making high-stakes leadership decisions. In this conversation, we unpack why emotional intelligence is becoming more valuable (not less!) in the age of AI, how to make the difficult transition from individual contributor to leader, and what executives are really looking for when they decide who's ready for the next level. Main Topics: Michael’s non-traditional career path and key learnings from early rolesThe role of emotional intelligence and vulnerability in effective leadershipBuilding organizational culture through trust, conflict, and clear communicationRecognizing when it’s time to pivot professionally based on values and environmentThe impact of technology evolution and skills to focus on in the age of AIStrategies for developing executive presence and impactful communicationThe significance of self-awareness and team fit in leadership success Timestamps: 00:00 - Introducing Michael Cubit and his background 02:03 - Lessons learned from early roles in hotel maintenance and transferable skills 03:45 - How DIY problem-solving influences professional problem-solving 05:06 - From music tech to IT: The evolution of technological involvement 06:13 - The early days of university-based dial-up modems and internet progress 08:21 - Skills to prioritize in the age of AI and technological disruption 10:12 - The importance of soft skills and emotional intelligence in leadership 11:36 - Perception management and deliberate career development 12:45 - Recognizing organizational misalignment and knowing when to move on 14:10 - Navigating virtual communication glitches and resilience during remote recordings 20:23 - The significance of brand and reputation in career success 22:13 - Developing leadership authenticity and the balance between self-control and presence 33:48 - Communicating effectively and managing power dynamics as a leader 36:28 - Building trust and fostering healthy team conflict (Lencioni’s model) 44:38 - Moving from doing to leading: the evolving leadership pie chart 52:26 - The ability to distill complexity and demonstrate executive presence 54:45 - Understanding and managing emotions for better leadership impact 57:31 - The art of toggling authenticity — reading the room and showing up deliberately 60:27 - Recommended books for leading change and understanding energy and spirituality (Switch by Chip & Dan Heath, Becoming Supernatural by Joe Dispenza) 63:30 - The grounding power of nature and staying connected to self amidst professional demands Resources & Links: Switch by Chip and Dan HeathBecoming Supernatural by Joe DispenzaLencioni's Five Dysfunctions of a Team Connect with Michael Kubit: LinkedIn #EmotionalIntelligence #CIO #TechLeadership #CareerGrowth #Leadership 🎙️ Subscribe for more career growth & leadership insights!

  2. 6d ago

    Unlocking Authenticity and Resilience in Your Career with Colleen Lauria

    In this episode, Colleen Lauria shares her inspiring journey of embracing her authentic self in the workplace, navigating mental health challenges, and building a fulfilling career in HR and coaching. Discover how core skills like emotional intelligence, curiosity, and thriving amid ambiguity can elevate your professional life, no matter your industry. Key Topics - We discuss: The importance of mental health awareness and integrating personal challenges into professional growthHer unconventional career arc from real estate to HR consultancy to corporate transformationThe role of networking and relationship-building in pivoting careersHow to recognize if you're in the right organizational environment for successThe enduring relevance of emotional intelligence, curiosity, and adaptability in a changing business landscapePractical steps to develop coachability, embrace feedback, and own mistakes confidentlyThe impact of authentic leadership and how to balance self-expression with organizational cultureThe significance of understanding your core values—like freedom—and how they shape career choicesManaging workplace politics while staying true to yourselfUsing AI as a cognitive tool without losing creative and critical thinking skillsBook recommendation: The Myth of Normal by Dr. Gabor Mate—exploring inherited trauma and self-development Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to Colleen Lauria’s journey and insights 02:05 - The thread of passion connecting music, theater, and leadership 06:01 - Navigating career transitions and the power of networking 10:39 - Embracing mental health struggles as superpowers in professional growth 16:36 - Overcoming imposter syndrome and trusting organizational support 22:27 - How seniority fosters authentic leadership and self-confidence 28:46 - Recognizing organizational culture fit and the importance of values 36:25 - Practical skills for thriving amid change and ambiguity 43:34 - Understanding executive presence beyond traditional norms 46:41 - Book recommendation for self-development and emotional healing Resources & Links: The Myth of Normal by Dr. Gabor Mate: https://amzn.to/4g0XjvhNational Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Connect with Colleen: LinkedIn #Authenticity #MentalHealthAtWork #Resilience #CareerGrowth #Leadership | 🎙️ Subscribe for more career growth & leadership insights!

  3. 6d ago

    From Hollywood Extra to HR Leader: The Power of Storytelling With Patrick Sutton

    Patrick Sutton shares his inspiring journey from Hollywood extra to HR executive emphasizing authenticity, storytelling, and strategic influence in career growth. In this episode: Patrick shares his unexpected startThe crucial skills acting and storytelling develop for effective communication and executive presenceTransition from Hollywood to corporate, highlighting the transferability of soft skillsHow embracing career pivots and external influences can guide strategic growthThe importance of building your personal brand, visibility, and advocacy through self-promotionPractical tips on "reading the room" and influencing via storytelling and emotional intelligenceThe significance of legacy-minded leadership over trend-driven pursuitsInsights into trust, integrity, and owning your story to accelerate promotions Timestamps: 00:16 - Welcome and Patrick Sutton’s Hollywood debut experience 01:30 - How a movie role led to corporate skills development 02:53 - Acting skills enhancing executive presence and communication 04:20 - Teenage role in A Time to Kill and its impact on professionalism 05:07 - Transition from Hollywood to corporate HR and learning to pivot 06:45 - The power of transferable skills from acting to leadership 08:40 - Childhood dreams of becoming a writer and storytelling as a career foundation 09:58 - Influences from college and early career explorations 11:10 - Starting in media and realizing the importance of connection 13:47 - Advice for career growth and the importance of being intentional 14:23 - How 2008 recession shaped empathy and leadership in HR 16:09 - The moment that defined Patrick’s desire to make a difference in HR 17:39 - Finding joy in the work and creating a legacy in leadership 19:39 - Navigating work fulfillment in a challenging economy 20:01 - The importance of owning your story and self-advocacy 21:38 - Practice makes perfect: elevator pitches and storytelling tips 22:06 - Building community and relationships for career advancement 23:04 - The art of advocacy, sponsorship versus mentorship 25:28 - The importance of integrity and follow-through in promotions 31:10 - Legacy over trends: becoming a legend in leadership 34:35 - Mastering influence by reading the room and connecting authentically 45:35 - Developing executive presence through confidence and body language 48:55 - Trust, credibility, and the role of integrity in leadership decisions 50:11 - Advice to Patrick from a decade ago: trust yourself 51:49 - Patrick’s favorite books: Let Them and The Four Agreements Resources & Links: Let Them by Mel RobbinsThe Four Agreements by Miguel RuizConnect with Patrick Sutton: LinkedIn #ExecutivePresence #CareerAdvice #Leadership #PersonalBranding #StorytellingForLeaders |  🎙️ Subscribe for more career growth & leadership insights!

  4. 6d ago

    Career Advice from a CHRO: Kacy Wickenhauser on Resilience & Trust-Building

    In this episode, Kacy Wickenhauser shares her inspiring journey from aspiring ER physician to CHRO in the energy industry, highlighting the importance of resilience, authenticity, and strategic thinking in career development. Key Topics: The value of starting in unglamorous roles to build foundational skills in HR and corporate settingsThe significance of partner choice and support systems in shaping career paths and dreamsLessons learned from managing employee relations, layoffs, and industry stability during economic downturnsThe importance of curiosity, trust-building, and intentional branding in leadership developmentUnderstanding executive presence and the impact of distractions in today’s fast-paced workplaceEmbracing vulnerability, authenticity, and the concept of ‘bringing your whole self’ to workStrategies for navigating mistakes and building credibility through trust and consistencyThe ongoing balance of work, personal values, and life’s unpredictabilityTimestamps00:00 - Introduction and insights into Casey’s career pivot02:05 - Reflecting on the regret of not pursuing a childhood dream in medicine05:55 - How psychology and an MBA shaped Casey’s HR approach08:12 - Building foundational HR experience in staffing and manufacturing settings10:24 - Why the energy industry offers meaningful, sustainable work13:50 - Overcoming fear and embracing mistakes as growth opportunities15:50 - Trust as a 'trust jar' analogy for managing mistakes and credibility17:40 - The challenge of balancing emotional baggage with leadership responsibilities19:12 - Defining what it means to "have it all" and the importance of balance21:22 - Malcolm Gladwell’s Outliers and the importance of curiosity in talent development24:53 - The significance of executive presence and reading the room25:08 - The real meaning of ‘bring your whole self to work’ and setting boundaries28:13 - The impact of likability and building genuine relationships at work31:57 - Developing personal values and legacy in professional life36:44 - Strategic thinking beyond daily tactics for long-term success38:01 - Practical advice for high-performing employees seeking visibility39:43 - The role of vulnerability, authenticity, and storytelling in leadership42:09 - Recommended books: Victor Frankel’s Man’s Search for Meaning and Ethan Cross’s ChatterResources & LinksVictor Frankel - Man's Search for MeaningEthan Cross - Chatter Connect with KacyLinkedIn#CHRO #CareerAdvice #Resilience #ExecutivePresence #Leadership |  🎙️ Subscribe for more career growth & leadership insights!

  5. 6d ago

    From Art to Tech Leadership: A Journey of Courage, Growth, and Authenticity With Lauren Newton

    In this inspiring conversation, Lauren Newton shares her unconventional career path from art school to senior leadership in HR and recruiting. Her story highlights the importance of vulnerability, strategic risk-taking, and fostering authentic relationships in professional growth. The leap of faith: transitioning from creative arts to staffing without prior connectionsLessons learned from working at Facebook and Medium during hyper-growth and pandemic challengesBuilding psychological safety and vulnerability as leadership strengthsNavigating career pivots: from individual contributor to team builder and head of functionsThe significance of seeking mentorship, articulating ambitions, and making strategic plansWork-life boundaries and balancing motherhood with high-stakes roles In this episode: Lauren discusses how her early passion for art influenced her creative approach to recruitingThe moment she decided to leave a stable job for high-risk opportunities during pregnancyHow vulnerability and transparency built her leadership reputationThe role of internal relationships and political awareness in career advancementPractical advice for managing boundaries as a working parent in tech Timestamps: 00:00 - Lauren Newton’s childhood dreams and career evolution 02:03 - Transition from art school to creative recruiting success 03:22 - How a Monster.com resume led to her first recruiting role 04:09 - The importance of early career mentorship and networking 06:38 - From staffing agency to in-house recruiting at startups 08:32 - Experiences and challenges at Facebook during rapid growth 10:46 - The moment Lauren realized the impact of her work at Medium 12:35 - Overcoming risk aversion and taking bold career leaps while pregnant 15:22 - Building confidence through transparent leadership and advocacy 17:20 - Navigating pregnancy and inclusion in corporate culture 18:38 - Transitioning from Facebook to Medium as a transformational move 20:10 - Leading teams through hyper-growth and organizational change 23:19 - Recognizing leadership potential and advocating for yourself 27:24 - Cultivating vulnerability and transparency for psychological safety 30:45 - The power of being known and internal networking 34:36 - Handling corporate politics with integrity and strategy 40:50 - Setting boundaries for work-life harmony as a working mom 56:20 - Lauren’s favorite books on leadership and resilience 60:05 - Reflection on art, life, and ongoing learning Lauren emphasizes that vulnerability, transparency, and strategic risk are key to authentic leadership. Her journey exemplifies that with clarity of purpose and strong relationships, career pivots and challenges become opportunities for growth. Resources & Links: No Rules Rules: Netflix and the Culture of Reinvention by Reed HastingsTheo of Golden by Allen LeviConnect with Lauren Newton: LinkedIn#Vulnerability #Leadership #TechCareers #CareerGrowth #WorkingParents |  🎙️ Subscribe for more career growth & leadership insights!

  6. Jul 23

    The Trailer

    I spent 23 years inside Fortune 500 companies, the last decade as SVP and Head of HR sitting in the rooms where promotion decisions actually get made. I've watched talented people get passed over for reasons no one ever explained to them, and I've watched others rise because they understood something the rest of the room didn't. I'm Courtney O'Connell, and this is Inside the Promotion Room. This trailer is your first look at the show: why I'm doing this, who it's for, and what you can expect every week. If you're a manager, director, or executive who feels like you're doing great work that nobody notices, this show was built for you. Each week, I sit down with senior leaders and executives for an honest conversation about how their careers actually happened, not the polished version. We talk about the moments that changed everything, the mentors and sponsors who opened doors, the mistakes that almost ended things, and the unwritten rules of executive presence, visibility, and workplace politics that most people only learn the hard way. Inside the Promotion Room launches soon. Subscribe now so you're ready when they drop. Welcome to the Promoted Room 🔔 Subscribe for weekly conversations on career advancement, executive presence, and leadership 📩 Guest inquiries: support@thepromoted.com _🌐_http://thepromoted.com #CareerAdvancement #Leadership #ExecutivePresence #PromotionTips #CorporateLeadership Music licensed through Soundstripe. Code: 0KCSIEDUZK32IJU8

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Inside the Promotion Room is a career advancement and leadership podcast for corporate professionals who want to get ahead. Because, there's a conversation happening right now in a room somewhere in your company about who's getting promoted next, and you're not in the room. Most people never are. Inside the Promotion Room is the show that changes that. Every week, host Courtney O'Connell (a former Fortune 500 SVP and Head of HR with 23 years inside corporate America) sits down with senior leaders, executives, and career trailblazers to pull back the curtain on what really happens when talent gets assessed, careers get made, and promotions get decided. This isn't a show about working harder. It's a show about working smarter and understanding the unwritten rules that separate high performers who plateau from the ones who rise. Each episode goes inside the real stories: the pivotal moments, the relationships that changed everything, the mistakes that almost derailed great careers, and the hard-won wisdom that most leaders only share behind closed doors. What you'll hear every week: → How leaders actually climbed the ladder (and not the polished version - We go deep!) → What decision-makers are really looking for in up-and-coming talent → The role of executive presence, visibility, and reputation in getting ahead at work → How successful people navigated setbacks, politics, and work-life reality → The conversations that happen in rooms you're not in and how to make sure your reputation is clear and deliberate Inside the Promotion Room is for every high-achieving leader who is ready to become the undeniable choice for that next big opportunity.