From Sales VP to Small Business Owner: Bringing Artisanal Foods to Retailers

Coaching Beyond the Game: A Career as a Football Coach and Educator

In this episode of Career Journals, we talk with Luther Jones, an educator and football coach who is passionate about mentorship and youth development. Luther shares his journey from playing college football to dedicating his career to coaching, and high school education. Through coaching and running youth football camps, Luther focuses on helping students build confidence, discipline, and leadership skills that extend far beyond sports. His story highlights how athletics can open doors to careers in education, mentorship, and community leadership. If you are interested in sports, coaching, or working in education, here is a closer look at what this career path can look like.

Balancing Investment Management and Storytelling: The Life of a Finance Professional and Author

In this episode of Career Journals, we talk with Urmi Hossain, an investment management associate. Outside of her work in finance, Urmi is also a speaker, mentor, author, YouTuber, and host of the podcast Stories Beyond Borders. Urmi shares how she built a career in the finance industry while also pursuing her passion for storytelling, leadership, and mentorship. Her journey shows that careers do not have to fit into one box. You can build a professional career while also exploring creativity, community leadership, and personal passions. Where can you find Urmi? * Podcast (Stories Beyond Borders) - https://open.spotify.com/show/2vbwcrVNedmvljLnT5UEPc?si=f115aa1db3c4460b [https://open.spotify.com/show/2vbwcrVNedmvljLnT5UEPc?si=f115aa1db3c4460b] * Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/storiesbeyondborderspodcast/ [https://www.instagram.com/storiesbeyondborderspodcast/] * LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/urmihossain/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/urmihossain/] * YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@urmihossain [https://www.youtube.com/@urmihossain] *  Book - Discovering Your Identity: A Rebirth From Interracial Struggle – Available on Amazon [https://www.amazon.ca/Discovering-Your-Identity-Interracial-Struggle/dp/B0B6XJ6Y3Q]

From Sales VP to Small Business Owner: Bringing Artisanal Foods to Retailers

In this episode of Career Journals Podcast, we sit down with Leslie, the founder of Produits Artisanaux, a fine foods company dedicated to elevating artisanal food brands and connecting them with specialty food retailers. Leslie shares her journey from corporate sales leader, eventually becoming a VP before discovering her true passion, food. Now, she’s the “middle woman” helping local and emerging brands find their way into grocery stores and markets, building bridges between creative makers and innovative retailers. Whether you’re interested in small business ownership, the specialty food world, or pivoting careers to follow your passion, this conversation is packed with insight and inspiration.

Running the rails: A look inside Locomotive Operations

Ever wondered what it takes to keep trains running safely, smoothly, and on time? In this episode, we sit down with Busayo, a Manager of Locomotive Operations, to talk about the high-stakes, fast-paced world behind the scenes of rail transportation. Busayo shares how she got into the industry, what a typical day looks like, the leadership skills it takes to manage crews and schedules, and the challenges that come with making sure everything stays on track, literally. Whether you're curious about operations, logistics, or careers beyond the classroom, this one’s for you. Tune in and take a ride through the world of locomotive operations.

Breaking into fashion: The Journey of a Product Merchandiser

Ever wonder how your favorite pieces end up on store shelves or trending online? In this episode, we chat with Nishi, an Assistant Product Merchandiser at one of the world’s top fashion retailers, about what it really takes to break into the fashion industry. Nishi shares her path into merchandising, what her day-to-day looks like, how trends are forecasted and managed, and the teamwork that brings each product to life. She also opens up about navigating corporate fashion, finding your voice early in your career, and what she wishes she knew before getting started. Whether you're dreaming of a career in fashion or just curious about what happens behind the scenes, this episode is full of insight.