Inspire Careers Spotlight Series

Finding a good job after college can be much harder than it looks—even when you have a master’s degree, a 4.0 GPA, and strong internship experience.In this episode of Inspire Careers Spotlight, I sit down with Trace Lustgarten to share his job search success story and talk about how the Inspire Careers Student Grad Program helped him stay focused, structured, and accountable throughout the job search process.Trace shares what his job search looked like, including the frustration of sending out applications and networking without always seeing immediate results. He explains how having weekly check-ins and a structured approach helped him keep making progress instead of getting discouraged.The conversation also dives into the strategies that ultimately helped Trace land his new role at State Street—consistently posting on LinkedIn, building genuine connections, following up with people in his network, and being willing to go beyond what was required during the interview process.Most importantly, Trace’s story shows that getting hired can take patience, creativity, persistence, and a willingness to keep showing up—even when it feels like nothing is happening.Key points covered:Why even highly qualified recent graduates can struggle to find a jobHow the Inspire Careers Grad Program provides structure and accountabilityWhy consistent LinkedIn activity and networking can make a differenceHow Trace went beyond his resume to demonstrate his ability to learnThe importance of patience, persistence, and showing up consistentlyWhat recent graduates can learn from Trace’s successful job searchIf you are a student or a recent graduate and would like to improve your resume, or if you’re interested in career coaching, the Inspire Careers Student Professional Launch Program may be exactly what you need. So, get in touch with Inspire Careers to see how we can help.If you’re a recent graduate struggling to find the right job, Trace’s story is a reminder that having the right education and experience is only part of the equation. A structured job search, consistent networking, accountability, and the willingness to go the extra mile can make a real difference.Key Links and Resources:Inspire Careers Grad ProgramInspire Careers Digital CoursesInspire CareersInspire Careers on LinkedIn and InstagramCathy Lanzalaco on LinkedInTrace Lustgarten on LinkedInPodcast editing by https://podcastmagician.com/

Nobody talks enough about the emotional side of job searching, especially the shame that can quietly build when the process takes longer than expected.In this episode, I unpack what job search shame really looks like, why so many people experience it across all age groups and career levels, and how it can start affecting not only your confidence, but your actual job search results too.From avoiding LinkedIn to questioning your own value, job search shame can become emotionally draining and deeply isolating. I also share why this isn’t just happening to graduates or early-career professionals (even high-level executives struggle with it).Most importantly, I talk about how to pull yourself out of that mindset, rebuild momentum and start taking practical steps forward again.Key points covered:What job search shame actually looks and feels likeThe emotional exhaustion of constant applications and networkingThe danger of carrying shame into interviews and networkingHow to acknowledge job search shame without letting it define youWhy small steps are key to rebuilding confidence and momentumThe mindset shift that can help you finally land a jobIf you’ve been feeling exhausted, discouraged or stuck in job search, this episode will remind you that you’re not alone - and that there’s a way through it.Key Links and Resources:Inspire Careers Grad ProgramInspire Careers Digital CoursesInspire CareersInspire Careers on LinkedIn and InstagramCathy Lanzalaco on LinkedInPodcast editing by https://podcastmagician.com/

Think your references are just a formality? Think again.In this episode, I unpack one of the most overlooked parts of the job application process - your references and how they can quietly make or break your chances of landing an offer.The “old way” of handling references no longer works in today’s competitive market. You’ll learn how HR teams actually use references, what they’re really listening for and how to position yourself more strategically.I also dive into the growing importance of LinkedIn recommendations, how they influence hiring decisions which means keeping your profile fresh and aligned is no longer optional.If you’ve ever treated references as an afterthought, this episode will change how you approach them completely.Key points covered:Why outdated job application strategies are holding you backHow your references may have cost you a job offerWhat HR is really looking for when they contact referencesThe biggest mistakes people make when choosing referencesHow to select strong, relevant and strategic referencesWhy LinkedIn recommendations matter more than everHow to confidently ask for powerful, specific recommendationsThe importance of keeping your references and LinkedIn profile up to dateReview your current references today. Are they relevant, recent and aligned with the roles you're applying for? If not, it’s time for a refresh and don’t forget to update your LinkedIn recommendations while you’re at it.Last but not least, if this episode helped you, please take a moment to leave a good reference (review) for the podcast. It will help to make it more visible to others who are interested in the topics of job search, resume writing, LinkedIn networking, career coach advice, etc. Thank you!Key Links and Resources:Inspire Careers Grad ProgramInspire Careers Digital CoursesInspire CareersInspire Careers on LinkedIn and InstagramCathy Lanzalaco on LinkedInPodcast editing by https://podcastmagician.com/

Are you earning well but still unsure how long you could comfortably survive a sudden job loss?Would your current financial plan support a career pivot without panic, pressure or poor money decisions?Career transitions hit executives differently. The income is higher, the lifestyle is bigger and the financial stakes are enormous. In this powerful episode, nationally recognised financial planner Nicholle Overkamp breaks down exactly how executives (especially women) can protect their wealth, stabilise cash flow and create financial clarity before, during and after a career shift.Nicholle shares real-world strategies for managing money when you're laid off, navigating extended unemployment and building a financial plan that turns uncertainty into opportunity. You’ll also hear specific guidance for single women executives who often carry full financial responsibility yet are the least prepared for forced career changes. Nicholle highlights the most common money mistakes she sees and how to avoid them through proactive planning, strong networks and deep knowledge of your numbers.Whether you’re planning a strategic exit, facing redundancy or rebuilding after months without income, this episode delivers practical financial strategies, executive money management insights and wealth-building advice designed for today’s leaders.Nicholle Overkamp, MBA, CDFA, ChFC, CLU is a financial powerhouse and unapologetic advocate for women and wealth. She is the Founder & CEO of Wilcox Financial Group and PowHERhouse Money Coaching, where she helps high-achieving women and executives build financial security and confidence without losing themselves in the process.Nicholle is the best-selling co-author of Money Bitch: A No-BS Guide for Smart Women to Own Their Financial Future, host of the PowHERhouse podcast, and a nationally featured expert in Forbes, Kiplinger, and WomElle. She also serves as President of Entrepreneurs’ Organisation Western NY.Her work blends sophisticated financial planning, wealth strategy, investment guidance, and bold coaching to help women own their financial future—especially during times of career change.In this episode:Financial planning strategies for executives facing career transitionsHow to financially prepare before leaving a corporate roleWhat to do immediately after being fired or laid offHow to manage cash flow and protect wealth during unemploymentWhy networking is a financial survival tool for executivesHow knowing your numbers increases financial options and confidenceCommon money mistakes executives make under pressureFinancial risks and blind spots for single women executivesSmart investing considerations heading into 2026If you're an executive navigating uncertainty, this episode will help you regain financial control, protect your wealth and move forward with clarity instead of fear.Key Links and Resources:Wilcox Financial Group https://wilcoxfinancialgroup.com/PowHERhouse Money Coaching https://powherhousemoney.com/LinkedIn https://linkedin.com/in/nicholleoverkampInstagram @moneybitchenergyEmail [email protected] Careers Grad ProgramInspire Careers Digital CoursesInspire CareersInspire Careers on LinkedIn and InstagramCathy Lanzalaco on LinkedInPodcast editing by https://podcastmagician.com/

If you’ve ever set goals full of motivation… only to lose momentum weeks later, this episode is for you.In this episode of the Inspire Careers podcast, I break down goal setting into a simple, practical system that actually works (no overwhelm, no complicated frameworks, just clarity and commitment). It’s the system I use myself and that’s why I wanted to share it with you.What’s inside:How to narrow your focus and decide what you truly wantHow to envision your ideal year (not just vague wishes)Why deciding first changes everythingHow to move from vision to action by doing the workThe power of accountability and tracking progressWhy commitment is the glue that holds goal setting togetherGoal setting isn’t about writing long lists. It’s about making clear decisions, taking consistent action and holding yourself accountable for the life you want to create.This episode will help you simplify your goals, strengthen your mindset and stay committed to what matters most.🎧 Listen now and start turning intention into action. If this episode made you reconsider goal setting or it inspired you, please share it with someone you feel is going to benefit from it, too.Key Links and Resources:Download the 2026 Goal Simplification Model https://drive.google.com/file/d/1l9n2CqzZbWNei0qKSBf-BgXLNP7irJtm/view?usp=sharingInspire Careers Grad ProgramInspire Careers Digital CoursesInspire CareersInspire Careers on LinkedIn and InstagramCathy Lanzalaco on LinkedInPodcast editing by https://podcastmagician.com/

Have you ever held yourself back because of a belief that wasn’t even true? Are you letting career “lies” shape your professional future?In this episode, I break down the top seven lies we tell ourselves about our careers and how each one stops us from growing. From age myths to loyalty misconceptions to the truth about AI and LinkedIn, I explain what’s really holding people back and how to move forward with confidence.In this episode you’ll learn:Why your work doesn’t speak for itself and how to advocate for your valueHow age is a mindset, not a limitationWhy being “too young” is a myth if you show your leadership potentialThe truth about career pivoting and rediscovering your strengthsHow workplace loyalty has evolved (and what it means for you)Why you can’t wait for your boss to teach you AIWhen hiring really happens and why holidays can be your advantageThe surprising truth about LinkedIn (yes, it matters!)Why mindset shapes your opportunities more than any external factorIf this episode inspires you, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more career insights!Key Links and Resources:Inspire Careers Grad ProgramInspire Careers Digital CoursesInspire CareersInspire Careers on LinkedIn and InstagramCathy Lanzalaco on LinkedInPodcast editing by https://podcastmagician.com/

Big brands are laying off people (take Amazon, for example) and AI seems to be replacing jobs faster than we can update our CVs. So how can we compete with AI? Don’t panic and start looking at it from this angle: AI isn’t taking your job; it’s changing how we all work.Professional development is getting more layers than ever before. It’s no longer just about learning new skills - it’s about staying adaptable, tech-savvy, and emotionally intelligent in a world shaped by AI.In this episode, I break down what’s really happening in the workplace as automation and AI tools reshape roles. You’ll learn how to future-proof your career by upgrading your tech literacy, honing human-cantered skills and taking smart steps right now to stay employable in the AI era.What you’ll learn:Why people are being replaced by AI and what’s actually behind the trendHow to stay relevant at work by blending tech know-how with emotional intelligenceThe best human skills AI can’t copy (and why they’re your career’s secret weapon)Quick and practical actions to stay competitive in the AI-driven job marketIf you’re feeling uncertain about your role, this episode will help you turn change into opportunity and AI-proof your career. It’s also a must-watch if you’re ready to reinvent yourself, so tune in.Key Links and Resources:Inspire Careers Grad ProgramInspire Careers Digital CoursesInspire CareersInspire Careers on LinkedIn and InstagramCathy Lanzalaco on LinkedInPodcast editing by https://podcastmagician.com/

Why is burnout so widespread in the US, and why are we blaming the wrong things for it?Executive coach, speaker, and podcast host Ellen Whitlock Baker joins me on the podcast to share her personal story of walking away from burnout and how she’s now helping individuals and workplaces do better. After 20 years in the workforce, Ellen realized the system (not the people) was broken, and she’s been working ever since to challenge toxic workplace norms.In this episode, we dig into how burnout shows up, why the US compares so poorly to Europe when it comes to rest and time off, and what both individuals and organizations can do to break the cycle. From setting clear job descriptions to reframing your self-talk, Ellen offers strategies to help employees and leaders alike create healthier, more sustainable work environments.If you’ve ever felt trapped by the pressure to give 100% all the time or feared being seen as “less committed” by leaving the office on time, this conversation will give you the insight (and permission) to rethink what work should really look like.What’s inside: ✅ Why burnout is a systemic issue, not a personal failing ✅ First steps employers can take to prevent employee burnout ✅ The importance of clear job descriptions and boundaries ✅ How to reframe your self-talk to work for yourself, not against yourself ✅ Practical tools to recover from burnout and protect your valueIf you enjoyed this conversation, don’t forget to like, subscribe and leave a review. It helps us reach more listeners navigating today’s workplace challenges.Key Links and Resources:Ellen’s WebsiteEllen on Instagram and LinkedInThe Hard at Work PodcastInspire Careers Grad ProgramInspire Careers Digital CoursesInspire CareersInspire Careers on LinkedIn and InstagramCathy Lanzalaco on LinkedIn#burnoutrecovery #futureofwork #toxicworkculture #employeeexperience #executivecoaching #mentalhealthatworkPodcast editing by https://podcastmagician.com/

Looking for real answers to your job search and career questions? In this FAQ episode, I break down what job seekers need to know to succeed in today’s job market. Whether you’re starting a new career search, deep in the job hunt, or exploring a career transition, this episode delivers the clarity you’ve been waiting for.From market conditions and resume keywords to using AI for your resume and how often to post on LinkedIn, I share expert strategies in plain, practical language so you can stop guessing and start making progress.💡 What you’ll learn in this episode:If it’s a bad time to look for a job in today’s market (and what to do about it)Whether you can apply for multiple roles at the same company without hurting your chancesHow much resume and LinkedIn keywords really matter for standing out to recruitersHow often you should post on LinkedIn to stay visible and attract opportunitiesThe truth about using AI for your resume and how to use it wiselyHow long the typical career hunt should take and what factors affect itHow to know who to trust on LinkedIn for solid career adviceWhen to ask for professional help in your employment journeyThe networking formula that consistently delivers results🎯 This episode is packed with career tips, networking strategies, and job-hunting advice you can put into action right away to land interviews, build confidence, and accelerate your next career move.#jobsearchtips #careeradvice #linkedinstrategy #resumetips #jobhunt #networkingtips #jobsearchhelpKey Links and Resources:Inspire Careers Grad ProgramInspire Careers Digital CoursesInspire CareersInspire Careers on LinkedIn and InstagramCathy Lanzalaco on LinkedInUse INSPIRE15 for 15% off of The Salary Accelerator CourseKeri-Lynne Shaw on LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok and YouTubePodcast editing by https://podcastmagician.com/

Trace Lustgarten is a master’s student in Business Analytics at UMass Amherst, graduating in April and actively seeking his next big opportunity as a Business Analyst, Financial Analyst, Market Analyst, Product or Sports Analyst, or a role in Consulting.With a strong foundation in Data Science (Informatics) from his undergrad, Trace combines technical expertise with real-world experience. He’s completed internships in both Japan and the U.S., and is currently finishing up his second internship at Harkins Builders in Columbia, MD, where he's been building powerful data dashboards and turning complex numbers into clear business insights.But Trace isn’t just about numbers - he's also a creative and a leader. He joined the Graphic Design Club, was part of the Robotics Team, and later served as its President, showing that he’s just as comfortable leading teams as he is digging into data.🌏 With international experience in South Korea and Japan, and a willingness to relocate anywhere for the right opportunity, Trace brings a global mindset, analytical sharpness, and collaborative spirit to every project.If you’re looking to add a data-savvy, design-minded, and globally experienced analyst to your team, Trace is ready.If you are a student or a recent graduate and would like to improve your resume, or if you’re interested in career coaching, the Inspire Careers Student Professional Launch Program may be exactly what you need. So, get in touch with Inspire Careers to see how we can help.#businessanalytics, #datascience, #entryleveljobs, #analystrole, #internationalexperience #umassamherstKey Links and Resources:Trace Lustgarten on LinkedInInspire Careers Grad ProgramInspire Careers Digital CoursesInspire CareersInspire Careers on LinkedIn and InstagramCathy Lanzalaco on LinkedInUse INSPIRE15 for 15% off of The Salary Accelerator CourseKeri-Lynne Shaw on LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok and YouTubePodcast editing by https://podcastmagician.com/