What's Your Work Fit?

Dan Smolen
  • 5.0 (13)
  • CAREERS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

One Career Doesn't Fit All.

  1. APR 10

    Are Livable Communities the Result of Work Fit?

    What if where you live, work, and connect wasn’t fragmented—but intentionally designed to work together? In this episode of What’s Your Work Fit?, host Dan Smolen is joined by returning guest Chris Moeller, Founder of PathwayCommunities, alongside show Co-Hosts Mark Gilbreath (CEO of LiquidSpace) and Fran Saele (Managing Principal, MorteVita). Together, they explore a bold idea: livable communities as infrastructure for stability—not just housing. From factory-built homes to resilient microgrid-powered neighborhoods, Chris shares how his team is rethinking housing to better support civil servants like nurses, firefighters, and first responders—people increasingly priced out of the communities they serve. Key Themes & Takeaways 1. Work, Life, and Place Are Converging The traditional separation between where we live and where we work is collapsing. Livable communities are emerging as integrated ecosystems where people can live, work, and connect—all within proximity. 2. Housing as Infrastructure (Not Just Shelter) Chris reframes housing as a stabilizing force—critical to economic mobility, community resilience, and workforce sustainability. 3. The “Missing Middle” Housing Opportunity Hudson Commons introduces a range of smaller, attainable housing options (500–1,200 sq ft) designed for: Single professionals Civil servants First-time homeowners This “missing middle” fills a major gap between single-family homes and large apartment complexes. 4. Factory-Built, High-Performance Homes Fully assembled modular homes delivered in weeks Reduced labor constraints and weather delays Energy-efficient designs with lower operating costs Example: ~1,200 sq ft home priced under $300K with low annual energy costs 5. The Commons: Designed for Human Connection Instead of isolating residents, the community includes shared spaces such as: Community kitchens Co-working hubs Fire pits and gathering areas Short-term guest accommodations These spaces are designed for daily use—not just amenities. 6. From Sustainability → Resilience The conversation shifts from “green living” to resilient living, inspired by disaster recovery lessons: Microgrids powered by renewables On-site emergency resources Built-in disaster response capabilities Resilience isn’t theoretical—it’s operational. 7. Affordability Anchored to Real Incomes The model is built around a critical principle: Housing costs should not exceed ~25% of income This ensures long-term financial stability for residents. 8. Rebuilding Community for Essential Workers Today, many nurses, firefighters, and police officers commute long distances. This model brings them back into the communities they serve—strengthening both quality of life and civic resilience. 9. A New Housing Lifecycle Model Pathway Communities envisions housing as: An on-ramp for early-career workers (ages ~20–30) A stability platform for saving and wealth-building A stepping stone toward long-term homeownership Standout Insight “We don’t look at this as an amenity… we look at it as infrastructure.” This shift—from lifestyle perk to essential system—may redefine how communities are built moving forward. Why This Episode Matters As housing affordability, remote work, and community fragmentation collide, this episode offers a practical and scalable vision for rebuilding connection, stability, and opportuniy. This isn’t about amenities. It’s about designing communities that actually work—for the people who keep them running. Listen & Subscribe Follow What’s Your Work Fit? on: LinkedIn Live YouTube What’s Your Work Fit? on Substack

    55 min

  2. APR 3

    Work Then Place: Redefining How (and Where) Work Happens

    On What’s Your Work Fit?, Dan Smolen, Mark Gilbreath, and Fran Saele are joined by workplace strategists and authors Sara Escobar and Corinne Murray to unpack their influential book, WORK Then PLACE: Navigating Modern Work & Where It Happens. At a time when organizations are wrestling with return-to-office mandates, AI disruption, and shifting employee expectations, this conversation challenges a deeply ingrained assumption: Should we design the workplace first—or the work itself? Sara and Corinne argue convincingly that work must come first—and that everything else, including place, should follow. Key Themes & Insights 1. Work Then Place—Not the Other Way Around Many organizations still default to designing offices first and forcing work into them. The authors advocate for a flipped model: Define the what and why of work Understand how work actually happens Then design places (physical, digital, experiential) to support it “If you build it, they will come” no longer applies in modern work. 2. The “Place-First” Trap and Return-to-Office (RTO) Tension Companies are reverting to rigid office mandates driven largely by fear: Financial pressure Leadership uncertainty AI anxiety This has created a “we built it, now you must come” dynamic. The hosts and guests explore whether this is a temporary pendulum swing or a lasting shift. 3. AI as the Next Great Disruptor of Work Unlike the pandemic (which changed where work happened), AI is transforming what work is. Key implications: Compression of tasks → increased cognitive load Potential rise in burnout despite “efficiency gains” Redefinition of roles toward strategy, storytelling, and human connection AI may not eliminate work—but it will reshape it profoundly. 4. Human Skills Become the Differentiator As automation expands, uniquely human capabilities gain value: Socialization and connection Cross-functional storytelling Nonlinear thinking Rather than diminishing, human interaction may become more critical in AI-enabled workplaces. 5. Behavior Change Is the Hardest Challenge Organizations struggle not from lack of knowledge—but from resistance to change. Leaders often default to familiar models that made them successful. The book provides a repeatable framework to guide better decision-making at scale. 6. Employee Experience = Operational Advantage Workplace experience has long been dismissed as “nice to have” or “cultural confetti.” Escobar and Murray reframe it as: A core operational driver Directly tied to productivity, engagement, and business outcomes Better work design = better organizational performance. The Big Idea We’ve never truly designed work—only where it happens. This episode challenges leaders to rethink everything: Work is not a place Work is a system And it must be designed intentionally Memorable Moments “Place is the low-hanging fruit—but not the starting point.” “Return-to-office is being driven by fear—not necessarily what works best.” “AI isn’t just changing work—it’s compressing it.” “Socialization may be our greatest human superpower in an AI-driven world.” Who Should Listen Business leaders navigating hybrid and return-to-office strategies HR and workplace experience professionals Anyone concerned about AI’s impact on jobs and teams Professionals seeking better alignment between work, life, and purpose Learn More Follow What’s Your Work Fit? on LinkedIn and YouTube Explore the What’s Your Work Fit? Substack for deeper insights and episode extensions Follow our guests Sara Escobar and Corinne Murray Follow our Executive Producer and Host Dan Smolen Follow our Co-Hosts LiquidSpace CEO Mark Gilbreath and MorteVita Managing Principal Fran Saele Pick up a copy of WORK Then PLACE: Navigating Modern Work & Where It Happens. Call to Action If you enjoyed this episode, share it with five colleagues or friends who are rethinking their own work fit.

    59 min

  3. MAR 27

    Is AI Becoming Conscious—or Are We Asking the Wrong Question?

    What’s Your Work Fit? welcomes back JLL Managing Director, Future of Work, AI Adoption & Data Center Advisory, Ram Srinivasan, for a mind-expanding conversation at the intersection of AI, philosophy, and the future of work. Together with Executive Producer and Host Dan Smolen and Co-Host, MorteVita‘s Fran Saele, they explore whether agentic AI is evolving beyond tools into something more—and what that means for leaders, organizations, and your personal Work Fit. This episode challenges assumptions, reframes fear into opportunity, and delivers a powerful message: AI isn’t replacing work—it’s expanding what’s possible. Key Topics & Takeaways 1. Is Agentic AI Approaching Consciousness? The critical distinction between awareness, self-awareness, and consciousness Why today’s AI may exhibit “subjective experience”—but not sentience The philosophical debate: materialism vs. non-dual consciousness Why the real risk isn’t conscious AI—but perceived consciousness 2. From AI Tools to AI Agents Evolution from instruct → reasoning → copilots → agentic systems How multi-agent architectures execute complex tasks autonomously Why your “prompt” still represents the originating human intent 3. Reinvention vs. Substitution Why most companies are still using AI to optimize—not transform Ram’s challenge to leaders: Are you thinking big enough? The difference between incremental gains and true reinvention 4. AI as Your New Headcount Reframing AI from job threat → capability multiplier Real-world example: a 60-page Feng Shui analysis generated via AI The rise of “a thousand PhDs in your pocket” 5. The Rise of Digital Twins & Autonomous Agents Ram’s “Rambot” speaking 40+ languages globally AI agents operating independently across time zones and contexts What happens when your digital self gains its own experiences? 6. Shadow AI, Risk & Governance Why unauthorized AI usage is exploding inside enterprises The tension between innovation speed and corporate controls Best practices: explore boldly—but protect sensitive data 7. The Future Workplace in an AI World Why agility—not strategy—is now the competitive advantage The shift toward flexible real estate and hybrid work models A hard truth: if the workplace experience isn’t exceptional, people won’t come 8. Data Centers, Ethics & Human Impact The physical reality behind AI’s digital power Community, sustainability, and infrastructure concerns A critical question: Are we investing enough in human intelligence alongside artificial intelligence? Standout Insight “AI is not shrinking work. It’s expanding it. The question is: how will you expand with it?” Ram Srinivasan’s Work Fit Autonomy. As AI reshapes employment, Ram believes the future belongs to individuals who can operate with independence, creativity, and entrepreneurial thinking. Connect & Learn More Follow Ram Srinivasan on LinkedIn Explore his work and AI insights Subscribe to Substrate on Substack Call to Action If you’re navigating AI’s impact on your career, leadership, or organization, this episode is essential listening. Follow What’s Your Work Fit? on LinkedIn Subscribe to the What’s Your Work Fit? YouTube Channel for live and recorded episodes Join the Substack community for deeper insights and full archives Closing Thought As AI becomes more powerful, the real differentiator won’t be the technology—it will be how intentionally we use it to design better work, better lives, and a better Work Fit.

    1h 2m

  4. MAR 20

    How to Reinvent Yourself After a Layoff | Career Advice from Recruiter Kareem Rogers

    What do you do after a layoff—and how do you come back stronger? On What’s Your Work Fit?, host Dan Smolen welcomes Kareem Rogers, HR business partner, corporate recruiter, and founder of The Fit Recruiter LLC, for a practical and motivating conversation about career reinvention, job search strategy, networking, personal branding, and standing out in a crowded hiring market. Kareem shares what job seekers should focus on first after losing a job: mental health, healing, and clarity. From there, he outlines how candidates can rebuild with purpose by sharpening their brand, growing their network, upskilling—especially around AI and in-demand capabilities—and learning how to present proof of value in interviews. Dan and Kareem also explore the importance of team experience, curiosity, adaptability, military service, athletics, and transferable skills in shaping a resilient career path. The episode closes with a powerful reflection on what it means to help people find meaningful work that improves lives. If you are navigating a layoff, considering a career pivot, or trying to future-proof your career in a changing workplace, this episode is packed with actionable insight. In This Episode: How to reinvent yourself after a layoff Why mental health matters before job search strategy How recruiters evaluate candidates quickly The importance of personal branding in a competitive market Why networking and relationships still matter How to use examples and proof of work in interviews Why curiosity and adaptability drive long-term career success How sports, teams, and military experience build transferable skills What makes a candidate memorable to recruiters and hiring managers Kareem Rogers’ definition of true work fit Key Takeaways Being laid off is not just a professional event—it is an emotional one. Kareem emphasizes that recovery begins with healing, not hustling. Reinvention requires differentiation. Candidates need to know what they are known for, what value they bring, and how to demonstrate it clearly. Networking is not optional. Strong relationships can open doors, create introductions, and help candidates get seen. Upskilling matters more than ever. With AI reshaping the market, job seekers need to stay current and show evidence of growth. Recruiters respond to clarity, relevance, and connection. Great candidates do not just say they are valuable—they show it. Notable Moments [05:34] Dan asks the lead question: how do I reinvent myself after a layoff? [06:44] Kareem says healing and mental health must come before reinvention [08:00] Why personal branding and positioning matter in today’s job market [09:06] Kareem explains the real power of networking and connections [12:21] Why upskilling—especially around AI—can strengthen a job search [13:44] The value of bringing examples and proof of work into interviews [17:24] Why candidates must show value, not just claim they are hard workers [19:25] Dan and Kareem discuss sports, teamwork, and transferable career skills [27:27] Why military veterans often bring mission focus and discipline to work [31:17] Curiosity as a signal of long-term value and adaptability [34:37] Resume advice: match your application to what the job actually asks for [37:24] Why building rapport with interviewers can change outcomes [39:58] Dan shares a story about his daughter landing a nursing role through a powerful interview answer [47:42] Kareem answers the show’s signature question: What’s your work fit? About Our Guest Kareem Rogers is an HR business partner, corporate recruiter, and career coach. In his full-time role, he recruits nurses and technicians for a hospital system. Through his business, The Fit Recruiter LLC, he helps job seekers build stronger careers, increase earning potential, and position themselves more effectively in the job market. Kareem is also active on LinkedIn, where he shares career advice, motivation, and recruiting insights. Kareem lives and works in Chicago, Illinois. Why Listen to This Episode? This episode is for anyone who wants to: recover from a layoff with confidence improve job search results understand what recruiters really look for learn how to position themselves in a changing job market build a career that aligns with purpose, strengths, and long-term work fit This episode first aired on March 13, 2026 on the What’s Your Work Fit? YouTube Channel. Watch it HERE. EPISODE DATE: March 20, 2026 Social media: LinkedIn Website Please Subscribe to What’s Your Work Fit on: – Apple Podcasts – Android – Google Podcasts – Spotify

    51 min

  5. 12/26/2025

    What Does Workplace Leasing Look Like in 2026?

    On What’s Your Work Fit? we pose this question: What Does Workplace Leasing Look Like in 2026? Answering that question and others is our returning guest, Phil Mobley.  Phil is the National Director for Office Analytics at CoStar Group, the leading provider of commercial real estate information, analytics, and online marketplaces. Joining in on the discussion are What’s Your Work Fit? Executive Producer and Host Dan Smolen and Co-Hosts: LiquidSpace CEO Mark Gilbreath and MorteVita Managing Principal Fran Saele. We also discover Phil’s answer to the question, “What’s Your Work Fit?” His answer will resonate with many listeners. This conversation originated as a prerecorded show on December 17, 2025. You can watch it on the What’s Your Work Fit? YouTube Channel. About our guest: Phil Mobley is a well known and highly respected office analytics insights expert. He lives and works in the Boston, Massachusetts metro. EPISODE DATE: December 26, 2025 Social media: LinkedIn CoStar Group Website Please Subscribe to What’s Your Work Fit on: – Apple Podcasts – Android – Google Podcasts – Spotify

    56 min

  6. 12/19/2025

    How Can Community Support the Modern Workplace?

    On What’s Your Work Fit? we pose this question: How Can Community Support the Modern Workplace? Answering that question and others is our guest, Nirit Cohen.  Nirit is a future of work strategist, Forbes contributor, international keynote speaker, bestselling author, Intel veteran, and host of The Future of Less Work Podcast. She is also a member of The Future of Work Alliance. Joining in on the discussion are What’s Your Work Fit? Executive Producer and Host Dan Smolen and Co-Hosts: LiquidSpace CEO Mark Gilbreath and MorteVita Managing Principal Fran Saele. We also discover Nirit’s answer to the question, “What’s Your Work Fit?” Her answer will resonate with many listeners. This conversation originated as a live show on December 10, 2025. You can watch it on the What’s Your Work Fit? YouTube Channel. About our guest: Nirit Cohen is a future of work strategist and host of The Future of Less Work Podcast. EPISODE DATE: December 19, 2025 Social media: LinkedIn The Future of Less Work Podcast Substack Forbes Column Please Subscribe to What’s Your Work Fit on: – Apple Podcasts – Android – Google Podcasts – Spotify

    57 min

  7. 12/12/2025

    Can Good Systems Stave Off the Infinite Workday?

    On What’s Your Work Fit? we pose this question: Can Good Systems Stave Off the Infinite Workday? Answering that question and others is our guest, Darren Murph.  Named an “oracle of remote work” by CNBC and featured in The Forbes Future of Work 50, Darren is a recognized visionary in organizational design. He leads at the intersection of people operations, marketing, and strategic communication. Joining in on the discussion are What’s Your Work Fit? Executive Producer and Host Dan Smolen and Co-Hosts: LiquidSpace CEO Mark Gilbreath and MorteVita Managing Principal Fran Saele. We also discover Darren’s answer to the question, “What’s Your Work Fit?” His answer will resonate with many listeners. This conversation originated as a live show on December 3, 2025. You can watch it on the What’s Your Work Fit? YouTube Channel. About our guest: Darren Murph is a recognized visionary in organizational design and a popular thought-leader on the future of work. He lives and works in North Carolina. EPISODE DATE: December 12, 2025 Social media: LinkedIn Website Please Subscribe to What’s Your Work Fit on: – Apple Podcasts – Android – Google Podcasts – Spotify

    57 min

  8. 12/05/2025

    How Can Network Mapping Supercharge a Workplace?

    On What’s Your Work Fit? we pose this question: How Can Network Mapping Supercharge a Workplace? Answering that question and others is our guest, Andreas Hoffbauer PhD. As Founder and Director of Atelier Kultur, Andreas helps workforces make faster and more effective decisions through intentional connections at scale. Joining in on the discussion are What’s Your Work Fit? Executive Producer and Host Dan Smolen and Co-Host and MorteVita Managing Principal Fran Saele.  We also discover Andreas’ answer to the question, “What’s Your Work Fit?” His answer will resonate with many listeners. This conversation originated as a live show on November 19, 2025. You can watch it on the What’s Your Work Fit? YouTube Channel. About our guest: Andreas Hoffbauer PhD is the Founder and Director of Atelier Kultur; he helps workforces make faster and more effective decisions through intentional connections at scale. Andreas lives and works in New York City. EPISODE DATE: December 5, 2025 Social media: LinkedIn Website Please Subscribe to What’s Your Work Fit on: – Apple Podcasts – Android – Google Podcasts – Spotify

    55 min
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5
out of 5
13 Ratings

About

One Career Doesn't Fit All.

Information

  • Creator
    Dan Smolen
  • Years Active
    2016 - 2026
  • Episodes
    248
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2018-2023 The Dan Smolen Experience, LLC
  • Show Website
    What's Your Work Fit?