SHIFT with Elena Agar Elena Agaragimova

In this episode, our host Elena welcomes guest Alice, who joins us all the way from South Africa, though normally based in Dubai. Alice shares her journey from a freelance journalist to a successful entrepreneur who ventured into publicity, aiming to make it more accessible for under-recognized entrepreneurs. The conversation delves into the intricacies of entrepreneurship, the importance of self-awareness, and the power of maintaining authenticity in the face of public scrutiny.

Join Elena and Alice as they navigate through topics such as rejection resilience, personal branding, and the dynamics of media exposure. Stay tuned for a thought-provoking discussion that will inspire you to reflect on your own entrepreneurial journey.

Time stamps:
00:00 South African freelance journalist overcomes rejection.

04:47 Publicity doesn't require fancy skills or resources.

08:28 Paid media lacks credibility; industry recognition important.

12:06 PR professional explains perspective on "bad PR."

13:54 Even small podcast appearances can benefit you.

19:57 Learning requires self-assessment to overcome fear.

20:30 Entrepreneur views fear of failure as asset.

24:34 Entrepreneurship requires self-awareness, values freedom and flexibility.

30:15 Company webinar transformed boring posts, boosted career.

33:11 Short form versus long form content struggles.

36:55 Reflect on choices, let go of burdens.

37:51 Appreciative of Alice's time. Thank you.

Connect with Alice on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alice-m-draper/
Website: https://hustlingwriters.com/

Follow Elena:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaagaragimova/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elenaagaragimova/

Listen on:
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/shift-with-elena-agar/id1530850914
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5UKh6dWcuQwJlmAOqD8wij


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Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/elenaagar/support

In this installment, our host Elena is joined by the insightful Vit, a guest with a deep background in tech and a passion for continuous learning and growth. Together, they delve into the vital topic of soft skills and their increasing relevance in today's ever-evolving workplace. As they share personal experiences, discuss the impact of AI on project management, and explore the future of work, listeners are treated to a candid conversation filled with valuable insights and thought-provoking perspectives. Join Elena and Vit as they navigate the intersection of technology, personal growth, and career development in this engaging and enlightening episode.

Time stamps:
00:00 Came for summer, learned English, pursued education.

06:06 Appreciates balance between creative and analytical thinking.

09:27 AI boosts productivity, but leads to job loss.

11:48 Excited outlook on future of relationships and technology.

16:15 Struggle with skills, soft over technical growth.

20:15 Start a podcast, learn and grow consistently.

21:51 Interested in diverse career stories and growth.

25:47 Questioning the value of certain professional certifications.

28:02 Build skills, seek opportunities, and take initiative.

32:43 Early podcasts, apologies, then rapid progress ensues.

Connect with Vit on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vit-lyoshin/

Follow Elena:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaagaragimova/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elenaagaragimova/

Listen on:
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/shift-with-elena-agar/id1530850914
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5UKh6dWcuQwJlmAOqD8wij


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Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/elenaagar/support

In this episode with Shift with Elena Agar, I chat with Chris Bloomquist - Co-Founder / VP of Talent - The Talent Mine.

Chris shares his personal journey of career transitions, overcoming challenges, and finding fulfillment in meaningful work. Together, they explore the impact of technology on personal connections, mental and physical health, and the necessity of authentic communication in recruitment. Join Chris and I as we delve into the complexities of balancing technology with humanity and the power of intentional choices to shape our futures.

Time stamps:
00:00 Engineering degree led to unexpected career dissatisfaction.

06:13 Prioritized health, found thyroid cancer through investigation.

07:03 Taking charge of health, living in gratefulness.

11:50 Shame hinders progress and success in business.

14:11 Busy with family, sports, and social connections.

18:20 Consider all outcomes in business and relationships.

21:17 Valuing time, work, and community through service.

22:44 Lead by example, actions speak louder.

27:59 Innovation lost to focus on money and AI.

30:22 Recognition of human potential in recruitment is vital.

35:54 Create the life and audience you want.

38:35 Candidates urged to slow down job search.

42:30 Active in volunteering, networking, and community involvement.

44:19 Knowing your why leads to purposeful actions.

About Chris: Chris's journey into recruitment was anything but conventional. Initially a computer engineering student at Iowa State University, Chris's passion for computers led them to believe a career in programming or engineering was their only path. However, as life's twists and turns unfolded, Chris discovered the world of recruitment—a field seldom considered by those choosing their career paths. This unexpected pivot not only highlighted Chris's adaptive nature but also showcased their ability to thrive outside the realm of their original expectations. Through this serendipitous journey, Chris found a fulfilling career, embodying the idea that sometimes, the best opportunities are the ones we never initially consider.

Connect with Chris on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cbloomquist/
Website: https://www.thetalentmine.jobs/

Follow Elena:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaagaragimova/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elenaagaragimova/

Listen on:
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/shift-with-elena-agar/id1530850914
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5UKh6dWcuQwJlmAOqD8wij


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Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/elenaagar/support

In this episode, we delve into the transformative journey of Jevon, a former military service member turned speaker, coach, and consultant. Together with our host Elena, Jevon shares insights on resilience, leadership, and the power of mindset in navigating both life's challenges and entrepreneurial endeavors. From emphasizing the importance of empathetic leadership to the impact of AI on human work, our guests offer a wealth of wisdom and practical advice for listeners on this thought-provoking episode.

Tune in as Jevon and Elena explore the intersections of leadership, personal growth, and the importance of integrating mindfulness and nature into our daily lives.

Time stamps:
00:00 Military to civilian, flexibility, confidence, cybersecurity.

03:19 Growing interest in entrepreneurship and coaching post-pandemic.

07:46 Adversity builds resilience for entrepreneurial success.

11:31 Balancing decisions for self and others' good.

13:23 Leaders seek advice for empathetic and transparent guidance.

17:00 Choosing to respond rather than react positively.

21:34 Encourage remote workers to take meetings outdoors.

25:52 AI can help us in daily tasks.

28:21 Dedication to building empathetic cultures through courses.

30:16 Gratitude for collaboration and future opportunities.

Connect with Jevon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jevonwooden/

Follow Elena:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaagaragimova/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elenaagaragimova/

Listen on:
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/shift-with-elena-agar/id1530850914
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5UKh6dWcuQwJlmAOqD8wij


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Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/elenaagar/support

In this episode of Shift with Elena Agar, I chat with Atif Rafiq - President | Ex-Amazon, C Suite in Fortune 500, startup CEO | Board Director.

Atif has managed over 10,000 people over his C Suite career and knows a thing or two about knowledge work. As a tech innovator for over 25 years, he spotted the game changing potential of AI and workflow to drive knowledge work in early 2021, when he started Ritual.

After 15+ years in Silicon Valley / tech companies like Amazon, Atif rose through the ranks of various Fortune 500 companies. He was the first Chief Digital Officer in the history of the Fortune 500. His pioneering work at McDonald’s lead to work billions of dollars of new revenue, and he lead massive transformations as Global CIO and CDO at Volvo and then as President at MGM Resorts.

Atif has built a large following as one of today’s top management thinkers. Over 500,000 people follow his ideas on LinkedIn, where he is a Top Voice, and his newsletter Re:wire has over 100,000 subscribers.

In this episode, Atif shared his experiences transitioning from a high-flying corporate career to launching his startup, Ritual, aiming to blend human creativity with AI efficiency. He highlighted the necessity of up-skilling in an AI-driven era and the importance of psychological safety in leadership. Remember, embracing challenges and pushing beyond comfort zones are key to success in this rapidly evolving business landscape.

Connect with Atif on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/atif1/
Website - Ritual: https://www.ritual.work/

Time stamps:
00:00 Pioneered company innovation, led thousands, ready for change.

05:20 Choosing between expected path and true passion.

07:37 Entrepreneurship requires hard work, self-reliance, perseverance.

12:18 Maintain energy reserves for preventing burnout.

15:33 AI's impact on job market and education.

19:48 Companies need proactive future-focused teams for success.

20:41 CEO's need to focus on innovation and efficiency.

26:23 Generational and educational diversity impact employment outlook.

30:23 Seeing others succeed is gratifying for me.

33:29 Filter out noise, focus on true regrets

Follow Elena:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaagaragimova/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elenaagaragimova/

Listen on:
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/shift-with-elena-agar/id1530850914
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5UKh6dWcuQwJlmAOqD8wij


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Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/elenaagar/support

In this episode with Shift with Elena Agar, I chat with Jordana Cole - Founder and Principal Consultant of Ignited By Jordana Cole.

In this episode, we dove deep into the evolving job landscape and the critical role technology plays in it. We discussed the shift from specialized roles to valuing broad skill sets—think of it as becoming your own swiss army knife in the workforce. Both of us stressed the significance of being adaptable and lifelong learners, especially with the rapid integration of AI into our workplaces. Remember: embracing change and fostering a diverse skill set isn’t just an advantage—it's a necessity.

Jordana Cole is an igniter of leadership and team potential. As a global learning & development leader, leadership development facilitator, certified coach, and applied improviser, Jordana has designed and led L&D strategy, leadership programs, development workshops, courses, teambuilding sessions, and coaching engagements for thousands of individuals around the globe. Her organizational background includes non-profits, higher education, SaaS technology, financial services, and e-commerce.

Connect with Jordana on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordana-cole-mapp-a8445a8/
Website: https://ignitedbyjordana.com/

Time stamps:
00:00 Data scientist demand drops causing industry layoffs.

04:01 Business is not personal, have backup plan.

09:41 Recruitment process and resumes: a complex issue.

11:01 Challenges and empathy in the recruitment industry.

13:51 Investing in talent and infrastructure is crucial.

19:15 Childhood cliques manifest in adulthood, incentivized by system.

22:49 Structure events, emotions, and work professionally.

26:01 Addressing needs, managing expectations, and employee advocacy.

29:26 Communication must be perfect in litigious society.

31:59 Excited about AI in talent development and preparation.

34:00 AI can assist but humans are essential.

38:13 Upskilling and reskilling in tech savvy roles.

40:48 Maintaining talent development through networking and growth.

44:00 Diversification of skills and offerings for resilience.

48:22 Early adopter of AI, not other gadgets.

50:45 Planned future discussions and fitness commitment.

Follow Elena:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaagaragimova/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elenaagaragimova/

Listen on:
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/shift-with-elena-agar/id1530850914
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5UKh6dWcuQwJlmAOqD8wij


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Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/elenaagar/support