The Professionals Podcast

How Do You Write Your Career Story? Ask Design Thinking Expert Elliot Felix

Takeaways * The college experience can be overwhelming without proper guidance. * Unsung heroes in student support include dining hall staff and facilities engineers. * More services do not always lead to better student outcomes; simplicity is key. * Building a three-tiered support network is essential for success. * Design thinking is a practical approach to problem-solving in education. * Finding your community can help you navigate challenges in your career. * Effective leadership requires a focus on making progress, not just managing risk. * Storytelling is a critical skill in today's job market. * Bonding and bridging social capital are both necessary for a strong support system. * In-person communication skills will be increasingly valuable in the future. Elliot Felix Essentials * Online [https://www.elliotfelix.com/ ]  * On Socials * LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/elliotfelix/]  * Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/elliotfelix/'] * TikTok [http://www.tiktok.com/@elliot_felix]  * On the Page: * How to Get the Most Out of College [https://www.amazon.com/dp/193634257X]  * The Connected College: Leadership Strategies for Student Success  [https://www.amazon.com/Connected-College-Leadership-Strategies-Student-ebook/dp/B0FFTN4Z2G?ref_=ast_author_dp]   Chapters * 00:00 Navigating College Life: The Importance of Guidance * 05:31 Rethinking Student Support: Quality Over Quantity * 10:34 Design Thinking: A Framework for Problem Solving * 16:22 Leadership and Strategy: Doing Less with More * 19:55 Setting the Bar Low in Strategy * 21:32 The Power of Storytelling in Job Markets * 24:05 Crafting Effective Presentations * 27:24 Building Support Systems for Adult Learners * 30:01 Rethinking Leadership and Risk Management * 32:38 The Importance of In-Person Communication * 35:34 Future Aspirations and Educational Strategies

How do you show employers you've got what it takes? Ask ISC2's Casey Marks.

* ISC2 is the world's largest association of cybersecurity professionals. * Credentials play a crucial role in career mobility and professional recognition. * There is significant confusion between certificates and certifications. * Certifications are time-limited and can be revoked for unethical behavior. * Storytelling is essential in conveying the value of qualifications. * Volunteering can provide valuable perspectives and experiences. * Thinking probabilistically is a vital skill for future professionals. * Critical thinking and curiosity are essential in a data-driven world. * ISC2 is committed to filling the cybersecurity skills gap. * The future of cybersecurity education is focused on lifelong learning.

Unlocking Career Growth: Insights from Season 2

* Confidence is betting on yourself. * Work-life balance is impossible; strive for harmony. * Clarity comes from taking action, not overthinking. * Your first move doesn't have to be perfect. * Leadership starts with vulnerability. * Leaders create change, managers protect the status quo. * Identify your unique strengths and lean into them. * A good storyteller keeps an open mind. * Look for what's missing in the world to find opportunities. * Stay curious, connected, and committed to growth.

How do you ask the tough questions? Ask journalist Frank Sesno.

Subscribe and Rate The Professionals on:  🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-professionals-podcast/id1702917735 [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-professionals-podcast/id1702917735] 🔊 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6aaJhFeLdcDWE4B4aSM2BY [https://open.spotify.com/show/6aaJhFeLdcDWE4B4aSM2BY] Or wherever you get your favorite podcasts. For comments, show ideas, or advertising opportunities visit our show page [https://cps.gwu.edu/professionals-podcast] or email us: TheProfessionals@gwu.edu  [theprofessionals@gwu.edu] Chapters * Frank Sesno emphasizes the importance of asking tough but respectful questions in journalism. * Preparation for interviews involves understanding the audience and conducting thorough research. * The landscape of journalism is evolving, with challenges in monetizing digital media. * Aspiring journalists should develop a unique voice and expertise in a specific area. * Curiosity and continuous learning are essential for success in any field. * Frank's transition from journalism to education was inspired by a desire to use different skills. * The role of journalism is to seek the truth and hold power accountable. * Social media can amplify voices but requires careful management of one's digital footprint. * Frank encourages young journalists to be confident and genuine in their storytelling. * Investing in the future of journalism involves engaging with young people and addressing global challenges. Chapters * 00:00 The Art of Asking Tough Questions * 02:17 Frank Sesno: A Career in Journalism * 07:03 Preparing for High-Stakes Interviews * 10:08 The Evolving Landscape of Journalism * 15:11 Transitioning from Journalism to Education * 19:55 Advice for Aspiring Journalists * 24:56 Curiosity and Continuous Learning * 26:52 Looking to the Future

How do you become an FBI and CIA agent? Ask Tracy Walder.

* Tracy Walder's career path includes roles in both the CIA and FBI. * Many students self-select out of applying for intelligence jobs due to misconceptions. * Soft skills are crucial for success in intelligence roles. * The landscape of threats in national security is constantly evolving. * Building trust is essential in intelligence gathering. * The transition from CIA to FBI is not common but can happen. * Cybersecurity is a growing concern in national security. * Pop culture influences perceptions of intelligence work. * Tracy's book offers a narrative approach to her spy experiences. * The worst outcome of applying for a job is simply being told no. I learned that I was very naive. * The transition from CIA to FBI revealed cultural differences. * Law enforcement culture is different from intelligence culture. * Women faced significant challenges in law enforcement historically. * Listening is a crucial leadership skill. * Quiet leaders can be effective leaders. * Taking a moment to calm down can prevent miscommunication. * Aspiring professionals should simply apply for positions. * Representation in national security roles is important. * Breaking down complex issues can help inform the public. Chapters  * 00:00 Introduction to High-Stakes Intelligence Work * 02:24 Tracy Walder's Unique Career Path * 05:54 Transitioning from CIA to FBI * 08:25 Pursuing Careers in Homeland Security * 11:51 The Evolving Threat Landscape * 14:37 Day-to-Day Life in the CIA * 18:23 Building Trust in Intelligence Gathering * 19:50 The Unexpected Spy: A Narrative Approach * 21:16 Transitioning from CIA to FBI: Lessons Learned * 24:23 Navigating Gender Challenges in Law Enforcement * 27:49 Leadership Lessons from Intelligence Agencies * 32:23 Starting a Career in Intelligence and Law Enforcement * 35:25 Current Projects and Future Aspirations