Why “Just Learn AI” Is Bad Advice (And What to Do Instead)

Your 40s are supposed to feel like you’ve “made it.” So why does it often feel like a reset?In this episode, Lauren talks with Stacey Lindsay, author of Being 40, about why midlife can spark a major career shift—and how to navigate it with clarity and confidence.You’ll learn:Why your 40s can trigger a career resetHow to know when it’s time to pivotWhat success can look like nextShow NotesWeekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQW Guest Resources:https://www.amazon.com/Being-40-Letting-Go-Embracing/dp/0593831195https://www.staceylindsay.com/ Career Contessa ResourcesBook 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/ Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/ Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/ Sponsors:Head to Superpower.com and use code CONTESSA at checkout for $20 off your membership. Get 100+ biomarkers tested every year, plus a personalized health plan and on-demand care team. Detect early signs of 1,000+ conditions. #superpowerpodUnlock your best hair & skin with @iRestorelaser and HUGE savings on iRESTORE with code CONTESSA at irestore.com/CONTESSA! #irestorepodSave 20% Off Honeylove by going to honeylove.com/CONTESSA! #honeylovepodStart your free trial at shopify.com/careercontessa.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

AI is everywhere right now—and so is the pressure to “figure it out.” If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed or behind, you’re not alone. In this episode, Lauren sits down with Jill Ozovek to unpack what’s really driving AI anxiety—especially for knowledge workers—and why it’s less about technology and more about identity. They break down the biggest misconceptions about “learning AI,” and how to start experimenting in a way that actually feels manageable.You’ll learn:Why AI anxiety is really about identity—not just new technologyThe difference between using AI vs. building AI (and why it matters)Simple, realistic ways to start using AI without feeling overwhelmedShow NotesWeekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQW Guest Resources:Website: www.mvpclub.aiJoin the community: https://mvp-club.mn.co/Career Contessa ResourcesBook 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/ Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/ Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/ Sponsors:Use code CONTESSA at oakessentials.com to get 15% off your first purchase! #OakEssentials #ad Visit Carawayhome.com/CONTESSA to take an additional 10% off your next purchaseSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Is "follow your passion" actually bad career advice? Lauren sits down with bestselling author Tom Rath to discuss why passion isn't the key to fulfillment—and how contribution, strengths, and impact can lead to more meaningful work.You'll learn:Why "follow your passion" is often misleading—and what to focus on instead when making career decisions.How shifting your attention from personal fulfillment to contribution can create more meaning and satisfaction at work.The small, practical questions you can ask yourself to find purpose, strengthen your impact, and build a happier career in the age of AI.Show Notes:Weekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQW Guest Resources:Tom Rath website: https://tomrath.org/ What’s the Point book: https://tomrath.org/whats-the-pointStrengths Finder Book: https://tomrath.org/book-strengthsfinder Career Contessa Resources:Book 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/ Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/ Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/ Sponsors:Get 15% off Branch Basics with the code CONTESSA at https://branchbasics.com/CONTESSA #branchbasicspodLimited Time Offer – Make healthy eating simple. Get Huel today with my exclusive offer of 15% OFF online with my code [Career] at huel.com/[Career]. New Customers Only. Thank you to Huel for partnering and supporting our show!Thanks to today’s sponsor, Ogee: A higher standard for beauty. Go to ogee.com/CONTESSA and use code CONTESSA to get 20% off certified organic makeup that performs like luxury.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Uncertainty at work is everywhere—from AI shifts to layoffs to constant change. But how you respond to it can shape your career. In this episode, Lauren sits down with executive coach Liz Tran to explore AQ (Agility Quotient)—the skill of navigating change with confidence. You’ll learn how to understand your response to uncertainty and build the mindset to adapt.You’ll learn:Why AQ matters more than IQ or EQ in today’s workplaceThe 4 Agility Archetypes—and what yours says about youSimple ways to respond (not react) when things feel uncertainShow NotesWeekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQW Guest Resources:Quiz: https://liz-tran.com/Book: https://liz-tran.com/aq-book/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/liztranwrites/ Career Contessa ResourcesBook 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/ Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/ Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/ Sponsors:Start your free trial at shopify.com/careercontessa today.Take back control of your business today. Open a Found account for FREE at Found.com. Found is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services are provided by Lead Bank, Member FDIC. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

LinkedIn isn’t just an online résumé anymore—it’s your personal brand, positioning tool, and one of the most powerful ways to attract opportunities in 2026. In this episode, Lauren sits down with career strategist Michelle Perchuk to break down what recruiters actually look for, the biggest profile mistakes holding professionals back, and how to position yourself as the solution companies are actively searching for.You’ll learn:How to optimize your LinkedIn profile so recruiters immediately see your valueThe biggest mistakes high-achievers make—and how to fix them fastThe one high-impact change you can make in 30 minutes to get better results from your profileShow NotesWeekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQW LinkedIn Lab: https://careercontessa.teachable.com/p/the-linkedin-lab Guest Resources:Michelle LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mfuryaka/Michelle Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michelleperchuk/ Michelle YT: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEgXBW9Jfh_0sCwH95_CbIA Career Contessa Resources:Book 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/ Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/ Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/ Sponsors:Unlock your best hair & skin with @iRestorelaser and HUGE savings on iRESTORE with code CONTESSA at irestore.com/CONTESSA! #irestorepodLimited Time Offer – Make healthy eating simple. Get Huel today with my exclusive offer of 15% OFF online with my code [CAREER] at huel.com/[CAREER]. New Customers Only. Thank you to Huel for partnering and supporting our show!Visit Carawayhome.com/CONTESSA to take an additional 10% off your next purchase.Save 20% Off Honeylove by going to honeylove.com/CONTESSA! #honeylovepodSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

AI can make resume writing faster—but only if you know how to use it strategically. In this listener-favorite episode, learn how to use ChatGPT to write, tailor, and improve your resume so it actually stands out (not sound generic).In this episode, you’ll learn:How to use ChatGPT to write stronger, more results-driven resume bullet pointsHow to tailor your resume to a specific job description in minutesHow to create a compelling professional summary and cover letter using AIShow Notes:Weekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQW24-Hour Resume Makeover: https://careercontessa.teachable.com/p/resume-makeover-template/ ChatGPT Cheat Sheet: https://careercontessa.teachable.com/p/chatgpt-cheat-sheet Sponsors:Head to Superpower.com and use code CONTESSA at checkout for $20 off your membership. Get 100+ biomarkers tested every year, plus a personalized health plan and on-demand care team. Detect early signs of 1,000+ conditions. #superpowerpodDownload Cash App Today: https://click.cash.app/ui6m/f010o9zo  #CashAppPod Cash App is a financial services platform, not a bank. Banking services provided by Cash App's bank partner(s). Prepaid debit cards issued by Sutton Bank, Member FDIC. Cash App Visa® Debit Flex Cards issued by Sutton Bank, Member FDIC, and The Bancorp Bank, N.A., pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. See terms and conditions for the Sutton prepaid card at cash.app/legal/us/en-us/card-agreement, for the Sutton debit flex card at cash.app/legal/us/en-us/debit-flex-card-agreement-sutton and for the Bancorp debit flex card at cash.app/legal/us/en-us/debit-flex-card-agreement-bancorp. Savings and Offers provided by Cash App, a Block Inc. brand. Offers may not be affiliated with third party merchants. Parents and legal guardians can open a managed account for kids 6-12. Cash App will pass through a portion of the interest paid on your savings balance held in an account for the benefit of Cash App customers at Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., Member FDIC. To earn interest on your Cash App savings balance, you need to have sponsor approval. Exceptions may apply. Savings yield rate is subject to change. Visit cash.app/legal/podcast for full disclosures.Get 40% off select Lola Blankets products at Lolablankets.com by using code CONTESSA at checkout. Experience the world’s #1 blanket with Lola Blankets.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Why do some people build wealth and financial stability—while others feel stuck or constantly starting over? It’s not just about income—it’s about habits, mindset, and behavior. In this listener-favorite episode, financial expert Jean Chatzky shares what financially successful people do differently, including the key habits, mindset shifts, and practical strategies you can use to build long-term stability and feel more in control of your financial future.Show NotesWeekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQWFollow Career Contessa: http://bit.ly/2TMH2QP  HerMoney website: https://hermoney.com/ HerMoney podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hermoney-with-jean-chatzky/id1098802558SponsorsUnlock your best hair & skin with @iRestorelaser and HUGE savings on iRESTORE with code CONTESSA at irestore.com/CONTESSA! #irestorepodLimited Time Offer – Make healthy eating simple. Get Huel today with my exclusive offer of 15% OFF online with my code CAREER at huel.com/CAREER. New Customers Only. Thank you to Huel for partnering and supporting our show!Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial today at shopify.com/careercontessa. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What if the problem isn’t your productivity—but the way you’ve been taught to work?Most of us are still operating with outdated, industrial-era habits… even though today’s work requires focus, creativity, and deep thinking.In this listener-favorite episode, neuroscientist Dr. Mithu Storoni, author of Hyperefficient, shares how to work with your brain instead of against it—so you can think more clearly, avoid burnout, and perform at a higher level.In this episode, you’ll learn:How to align your work with your brain’s natural rhythms for better focus and efficiencyThe “3 gears” of your brain—and how to shift between them depending on the taskSimple ways to reduce decision fatigue and create an environment that supports deep workShow NotesWeekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQWFollow Career Contessa: http://bit.ly/2TMH2QP Guest ResourcesDr. Mithu Storoni: https://www.mithustoroni.com/Hyperefficent Book: https://www.amazon.com/Hyperefficient-Optimize-Your-Brain-Transform-ebook/dp/B0CDWJR44TDr. Mithu LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mithu-storoni/Career Contessa ResourcesBook 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/Browse open jobs: https://www.careercontessa.com/jobs/ SponsorsDownload Cash App Today: https://click.cash.app/ui6m/f010o9zo #CashAppPod. Cash App is a financial services platform, not a bank. Banking services provided by Cash App’s bank partner(s). Prepaid debit cards issued by Sutton Bank, Member FDIC. Cash App Visa® Debit Flex Cards issued by Sutton Bank, Member FDIC, and The Bancorp Bank, N.A., pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. See terms and conditions for the Sutton prepaid card, Sutton debit flex card, and Bancorp debit flex card. Savings provided by Cash App, a Block, Inc. brand. Visit cash.app/legal/podcast for full disclosures.Head to cozyearth.com and use my code CONTESSA for an exclusive 20% off.Get your menopause treatment plan today. Visit myalloy.com and use code CONTESSA for $20 off your first order! #AgeGracefullyThanks to today’s sponsor, Ogee: A higher standard for beauty. Go to ogee.com/CONTESSA and use code CONTESSA to get 20% off certified organic makeup that performs like luxury.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Your reputation isn’t just what you do—it’s what people say about you when you’re not in the room. And whether you’re intentional about it or not, you already have a personal brand at work.In this listener-favorite episode, branding expert Dorie Clark breaks down how to understand, shape, and strengthen your reputation so it actually supports your career growth.In this episode, you’ll learn:How to identify your current reputation—and whether it’s helping or holding you backPractical ways to shift and communicate your personal brand (without feeling inauthentic)The 3 key strategies to build expertise, credibility, and long-term visibilityShow Notes:Weekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQW Follow Career Contessa: http://bit.ly/2TMH2QP  Follow Lauren on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenmcgoodwin/ Guest Resources:Dorie Clark website: https://dorieclark.com/Free Assessment: https://dorieclark.com/join/ Career Contessa Resources:Book 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/ Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/ Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/ Browse open jobs: https://www.careercontessa.com/jobs/ Sponsors:Limited Time Offer – Make healthy eating simple. Get Huel today with my exclusive offer of 15% OFF online with my code CAREER at huel.com/CAREER. New Customers Only. Thank you to Huel for partnering and supporting our show!Save 20% Off Honeylove by going to honeylove.com/CONTESSA! #honeylovepodHere's what you get when you go to http://bioptimizers.com/contessa and use code CONTESSA: 15% off your entire order and a free travel size bottle of Masszymes - BiOptimizers' best-selling digestive enzymeGet 25% Off  Cowboy Colostrum with code CONTESSA at http:// cowboycolostrum.com/contessaSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The job market has changed—and standing out requires more than a polished resume. In this episode, Lauren sits down with career expert Sam DeMase from ZipRecruiter to break down what actually helps candidates get noticed right now—from clarifying your value proposition to optimizing the most important part of your resume. You’ll learn:Why the top one-third of your resume matters most—and exactly what should go thereHow to define and communicate a clear value proposition that makes employers pay attentionThe biggest mistakes job seekers make today—and how to avoid them in a competitive hiring marketShow NotesWeekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQW 24 Hour Resume Makeover: https://careercontessa.teachable.com/p/resume-makeover-template/ Job Search Dashboard: https://careercontessa.teachable.com/p/the-job-search-dashboard-notion-template Job Search Academy: https://careercontessa.teachable.com/p/how-to-land-the-job-by-targeting-your-dream-company1/ Guest Resources:Website: https://www.apowermood.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samdemase/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/apowermood/?hl=en Career Contessa ResourcesBook 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/ Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/ Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/ SponsorsGet 40% off select Lola Blankets products at Lolablankets.com by using code CONTESSA at checkout. Experience the world’s #1 blanket with Lola Blankets.Head to cozyearth.com and use my code CONTESSA for an exclusive 20% off. Shopify: The best businesses aren’t built in boardrooms. They’re built by people who just started. Free trial at shopify.com/careercontessaSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.