Kinda Planned

Alex Cuttiford
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Hi, I’m Alex Cuttiford, I’m career development obsessed and passionate about helping young professionals navigate their career with confidence, purpose, and impact. With a background in Trades, youth work, career development and government, I know what it’s like to have had a messy career. I also know my journey is my superpower. Over the past 8 years, I’ve designed and delivered strategic career initiatives and coached people through transitions big and small. My focus is on helping others understand themselves — their values, strengths, and skills — so they can make career decisions that are not just smart, but meaningful. I believe in holding space for authentic conversations, and the power of curiosity to unlock new opportunities. I’m the creator of the Kinda Planned podcast — where through authentic conversations, inspiring stories, and practical advice I’ll help you take ownership of your career and make decisions that feel right. But beyond the mic, I’m someone who’s walking the same path as my audience. I know what it feels like to be ambitious and uncertain, in fact I have embraced uncertainty as the gateway to unplannable opportunities. I’ve learnt to hold my goals in an open hand and asses every opportunity that comes my way through the filter of my values and relationships. Honestly, I couldn’t have planned my career better if I tried. I’m here for the people that want to build an impactful career without having to pretend they have it all figured out. Thanks for joining me.

  1. 6D AGO

    Generational divides in the workplace and how to close them with Matthew Taylor

    In this conversation with Matthew Taylor, we unpack the differences between generations, the similarities and how people can better understand one another. Gen Z are the new punching bag, just like every generation before, we get frustrated by youth and can't understand why they don't think and act like us. We conveniently forget we were once just like them. Matthew is the Founder of Heart HR, an HR consultancy based in Newcastle. https://hearthr.com.au/

    50 min

  2. FEB 1

    Empowering Women in Trades with Louise Azzopardi

    In this episode, Louise Azzopardi shares her inspiring journey from being a heavy vehicle mechanic to becoming a tradeswoman empowerment coach. She discusses the challenges women face in the trades, the improvements in visibility and acceptance, and the importance of building self-belief and confidence. Louise emphasises the need for supportive environments and the role of men in fostering inclusivity. She provides practical tools for women to enhance their self-confidence and navigate their careers in a male-dominated industry. Takeaways Louise Azzopardi transitioned from mechanic to empowerment coach.She was the first female to win in her competition category at the World Trade Skills Competition.Visibility of women in trades has improved due to social media.Women still face challenges and unconscious bias in the industry.Supportive environments are crucial for both men and women.Self-belief and self-talk are essential for success.Women should define their own career goals.Assumptions about women's capabilities can limit opportunities.Building a supportive network is vital for tradeswomen.Louise offers coaching and resources for women in trades. Chapters 00:00 Empowering Women in Trades 02:44 Louise's Journey to Becoming a Coach 05:54 Challenges and Improvements for Women in Trades 08:40 Cultural Shifts in the Trade Industry 11:47 Addressing Unconscious Bias and Workplace Dynamics 14:25 Building Self-Confidence and Self-Belief 17:38 Practical Tools for Personal Growth 20:45 Taking Action Towards Goals 23:31 Resources and Support for Tradeswomen

    34 min

  3. JAN 18

    The Art of Speaking with Influence with Tony Bulmer

    PROMOTION: Email info@bulmergroup.com and mention my name to get a free video resource, normally only available to Bulmer Group clients. Offer lasts 3 months from the release date. In this episode of Kinda Planned, Alex Cuttiford and Tony Bulmer discuss the art of speaking and presenting with influence. They explore Tony's career journey, the importance of authenticity in communication, and how to connect with audiences effectively. The conversation emphasises the need for preparation, the role of confidence in public speaking, and the significance of being audience-centric. Tony shares insights on overcoming nerves and the value of honesty in presentations, ultimately encouraging listeners to embrace their authentic selves when communicating. Takeaways Tony's career journey reflects the theme of exploring new opportunities. Authenticity is key to effective communication and presentation. Great presenters focus on being audience-centric rather than self-centric. Preparation and rehearsal are vital for building confidence. Nerves can be managed by focusing on the audience's feedback. Honesty in presentations fosters trust and connection with the audience. It's important to be yourself in both small and large presentations. The perception of what makes a great presenter often hinders confidence. Being real and humanising the presentation process is essential. Audiences generally want presenters to succeed and connect. Sound bites "Audiences want you to win." "It's okay to be me." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Speaking with Influence 02:48 Tony's Career Journey and Communication Skills 05:46 The Importance of Authenticity in Presenting 09:00 Audience-Centric Presenting 11:40 Preparation and Rehearsal Techniques 14:52 Building Confidence and Overcoming Nerves 17:53 The Role of Authenticity in Leadership 20:55 Connecting with Your Audience 23:44 The Challenges of Public Speaking 26:45 The Power of Being Yourself 29:45 Conclusion and Resources https://www.bulmergroup.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonybulmer/

    40 min

  4. JAN 4

    HR Strategies for Success with Kelly Vines

    In this episode, Alex Cuttiford speaks with HR consulting expert Kelly Vines about her career journey and the critical aspects of employee engagement, performance management, and workplace culture. They discuss the challenges organisations face in maintaining employee engagement, the importance of authentic leadership, and how effective onboarding and training can enhance retention. Kelly emphasises the need for open communication and feedback in fostering a supportive work environment. Takeaways Kelly Vines has over 23 years of experience in HR. Employee engagement is crucial for organisational success. Leaders should be vulnerable and authentic to build trust. Feedback must be acted upon to maintain employee trust. Lack of clarity and purpose can lead to disengagement. HR's role extends beyond payroll to strategic support. Performance management conversations should be constructive. Investing in employee development can reduce turnover. Effective onboarding is key to employee retention. Open communication is essential for a healthy workplace culture. Sound bites "Feedback without action burns trust." "Lack of purpose causes disengagement." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Kelly Vines and Her Journey 04:49 The Importance of Employee Engagement 10:01 Challenges in Employee Engagement 14:53 Navigating Performance Management Conversations 19:49 Training and Development Concerns 24:40 Onboarding and Retention Strategies 29:54 Building a Supportive Work Culture

    35 min

  5. 11/30/2025

    Preparing for Fatherhood: Lessons from Ali Killali

    In this episode of the Kinda Planned Career Podcast, host Alex Cuttiford speaks with Ali Killali, founder of Workpants, about the intersection of fatherhood and career development. They discuss the challenges and opportunities that arise when becoming a parent, including the importance of flexibility, financial planning, and the need for a supportive community. Ali shares insights on how to navigate the complexities of work-life balance and the transferable skills gained through parenthood that can enhance one's career. The conversation emphasises the importance of adaptability and kindness to oneself during this transformative journey. https://www.workpants.com.au/resources/dad-career-guide Takeaways The journey into parenthood can significantly impact career paths. Flexibility and adaptability are crucial in navigating work and family life. Financial planning is essential for new parents to ensure stability. Having a supportive community can alleviate the challenges of parenthood. It's important to approach parenting with a mindset of experimentation and kindness. Common pitfalls include rigid planning and unrealistic expectations of oneself. Parenthood can enhance skills like empathy, resilience, and adaptability. Recognising the value of transferable skills gained through parenting is important. It's okay to seek help and support from others during this journey. Finding a balance between personal values and societal expectations is key. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Fatherhood and Career Challenges 03:06 Ali's Career Journey and the Birth of Workpants 05:56 Navigating Parenthood and Career Transitions 08:57 Financial Planning for New Parents 11:51 The Fluidity of Parenthood and Career Planning 14:54 Protective Instincts and Social Dynamics of Parenthood 18:00 Pitfalls in Preparing for Parenthood 19:23 Navigating Parenthood: Embracing Change and Flexibility 22:40 The Pressure of Expectations: Finding Balance in Parenthood 26:24 Overcorrection in Parenting: Striking the Right Balance 31:40 Transferable Skills: How Parenthood Enhances Career Growth 35:41 Building Your Support Village: The Importance of Community

    41 min

  6. 11/23/2025

    A Leadership Deep Dive with Andy Olrich

    In this episode, Alex Cuttiford interviews Andy Olrich, a business improvement specialist and managing director of North Street Partners. They discuss Andy's career journey, the importance of lean and agile methodologies in business, and the significance of fostering a growth mindset in leadership. The conversation also delves into the challenges of change management, building a strong organisational culture, and the necessity of continuous learning and adaptability in today's fast-paced business environment. Takeaways Andy Olrich emphasises the importance of a growth mindset in leadership.Lean methodology focuses on removing waste and improving efficiency.Agile methodologies prioritise rapid value deployment and customer feedback.Effective change management requires clear communication of the 'why' behind changes.A strong organisational culture is built on vulnerable leadership and team engagement.Continuous learning and adaptability are crucial for personal and professional growth.Trust and accountability are essential for fostering a positive work environment.Leaders should encourage feedback and be open to learning from mistakes.Mentorship and networking are valuable for aspiring leaders.Strategy should align with the culture to ensure the successful implementation of initiatives. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Andy Olrich and His Journey 04:39 Understanding Lean and Agile Methodologies 09:54 The Importance of Culture in Leadership 14:49 Navigating Change Management Challenges 19:42 Preparing for Leadership Roles 29:54 Conclusion and Key Takeaways

    34 min

  7. 11/09/2025

    Empowering Women in Leadership with Jacqui Butler

    In this conversation, Jacqui Butler and I explore the non-linear paths of career journeys, the importance of leadership coaching, and the need for more women in leadership roles. We discuss the challenges of entrepreneurship, the significance of taking control of one's career, and the role of values in decision-making. Jacqui emphasises the importance of emotional intelligence and wellness in leadership, introducing the concept of grounded confidence. The discussion culminates in the introduction of Leadwell Academy, a program designed to empower leaders with essential skills. Takeaways Career paths are often non-linear and can evolve.Leadership coaching can significantly impact one's leadership style.Empowering women in leadership is crucial for organisational success.Entrepreneurship comes with its own set of challenges and responsibilities.Taking control of your career involves self-reflection and decision-making.Values should guide career decisions and actions.Emotional intelligence is key to effective leadership.Grounded confidence allows leaders to self-regulate and support others.Wellness and stress management are essential for leadership effectiveness.Leadwell Academy aims to make leadership training accessible to all. Chapters 00:00 Career Journeys and Non-Linear Paths 03:04 The Importance of Leadership Coaching 05:41 Empowering Women in Leadership 08:51 The Challenges of Entrepreneurship 11:42 Taking Control of Your Career 14:37 The Role of Values in Career Decisions 17:45 Emotional Intelligence in Leadership 20:49 Grounded Confidence in Leadership 23:30 Wellness and Stress Management 26:43 The Impact of Emotional Intelligence 29:34 Leadwell Academy and Leadership Development

    44 min

  8. 10/26/2025

    supporting parents to guide their child's career development with Shanna Fuz

    In this conversation, Shanna Fuz, a career counsellor and education consultant, shares her unique journey through various career paths, emphasising the importance of chance and happenstance in shaping one's career. She discusses the role of parents in guiding young people through career decisions, the significance of building networks, and the necessity of embracing change and lifelong learning in today's rapidly evolving job market. Takeaways Chance and happenstance play a significant role in career paths. Parents often catastrophize their children's career decisions. Reflecting on their own career journeys helps parents support their children. Networking is crucial for career opportunities. Students should take ownership of their career decisions. Communication between parents and children is vital. Lifelong learning is essential in a changing job market. Transferable skills are valuable across various careers. Empathy and cultural understanding are important in today's workforce. It's okay for young people to explore different career options. Chapters 00:00 Navigating Career Paths: A Journey of Chance and Happenstance 11:52 The Role of Parents in Career Decision-Making 25:03 Building Networks: The Importance of Connections 36:45 Embracing Change and Lifelong Learning https://brightlaneco.com.au/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/shanna-fuz-8a37ba2ab/

    41 min
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About

Hi, I’m Alex Cuttiford, I’m career development obsessed and passionate about helping young professionals navigate their career with confidence, purpose, and impact. With a background in Trades, youth work, career development and government, I know what it’s like to have had a messy career. I also know my journey is my superpower. Over the past 8 years, I’ve designed and delivered strategic career initiatives and coached people through transitions big and small. My focus is on helping others understand themselves — their values, strengths, and skills — so they can make career decisions that are not just smart, but meaningful. I believe in holding space for authentic conversations, and the power of curiosity to unlock new opportunities. I’m the creator of the Kinda Planned podcast — where through authentic conversations, inspiring stories, and practical advice I’ll help you take ownership of your career and make decisions that feel right. But beyond the mic, I’m someone who’s walking the same path as my audience. I know what it feels like to be ambitious and uncertain, in fact I have embraced uncertainty as the gateway to unplannable opportunities. I’ve learnt to hold my goals in an open hand and asses every opportunity that comes my way through the filter of my values and relationships. Honestly, I couldn’t have planned my career better if I tried. I’m here for the people that want to build an impactful career without having to pretend they have it all figured out. Thanks for joining me.

Information

  • Creator
    Alex Cuttiford
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    56
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Alex Cuttiford
  • Show Website
    Kinda Planned