The Hiring Edge - podcast cover

The Hiring Edge

Smarter hiring. Stronger teams. Better careers.

Hosted by Josh Matthews — founder of TheSalesforceRecruiter.com — this podcast gives you the real-world edge to grow teams and careers in tech.

Whether you’re a leader trying to build high-performance delivery teams, or a professional navigating the career ladder, Josh delivers no-fluff insights through solo episodes and raw convos with top minds across hiring, leadership, and career growth.

You’ll get:

  • Proven frameworks for hiring, scaling, and retention
  • Talent trends, AI tools, and recruiting tactics that actually work
  • Career advice to help you stand out, level up, and move fast
  • Culture and compensation strategies for real growth

Built for founders, tech leads, HR pros, and ambitious professionals — inside and beyond the Salesforce ecosystem.

New episodes every other week.
Watch on https://joshforce.com/YouTube

Subscribe now — and get the edge on both sides of the table.

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Episodes

Build a Top Boutique Salesforce Firm: Strategies from Flok Consulting Founders

Send us a text Unlock the secrets to building a successful boutique consulting firm as Drew Benson and Jimmy Glynn from Flock Consulting join us on the Salesforce Career Show! Discover how Flock's unique company culture not only attracts top talent but also fosters an environment where employees feel like they're working with friends. From their early days meeting at Dreamforce to becoming a trusted name in Experience and Service Cloud solutions, Drew and Jimmy share invaluable insights about le...

May 29, 20241 hrSeason 2Ep. 46

Wage Trends, + Strategies for Career Advancement and Authentic Hiring with Stacey Whitaker

Send us a text Unlock the secrets of crafting a career within the Salesforce ecosystem with the wisdom of Stacey Whitaker, a Salesforce MVP Hall of Famer whose insights on authenticity could very well be the key to your next breakthrough. This episode is a treasure trove for professionals seeking to navigate the hiring process with integrity, from presenting your best self on paper to acing job interviews with genuine curiosity. We cover the vital need for genuine interactions, the post-pandemic...

May 14, 20241 hr 19 minSeason 2Ep. 45

Outgrowing The Salesforce Hoodie: Career Growth Advice from the Pros

Send us a text Embark on a revealing journey through the Salesforce ecosystem as we join forces with seasoned professionals at the Salesforce World Tour in New York City. Uncover the transformative power of retaining a beginner's mindset with the wisdom of Makeda Keegan and other industry veterans. Their candid stories chart the course from fledgling novices to experts, illustrating the invaluable lessons learned along the way. From navigating personal and professional obstacles to seizing unexp...

May 07, 20241 hr 13 minSeason 2Ep. 44

How to Become a Salesforce Digital Nomad: Embracing Travel with Alex Lapa

Send us a text Have you ever packed your life into a suitcase and taken your work with you to a corner of the world where the sun always shines? That's the story of Alex Lapa, a Salesforce architect who's mastered the art of living and working anywhere. As our guest, he takes us on a journey through the digital nomad lifestyle from his base in the sun-kissed South of Spain. We discuss the allure and logistics of living bi-locationally, exchanging the conventional office for the freedom to roam, ...

Apr 30, 202433 minSeason 2Ep. 43

Advancing Rev Ops, Sales Strategies, and AI - A Focus On Fin Serv

Send us a text Prepare to unlock the secrets of the Salesforce ecosystem with our esteemed guests, industry veterans Fred Cadena and Anna Papas, as well as our cherished regulars, Josh Matthews and Vanessa Grant. This episode promises a trove of insights as we dissect Salesforce products like Financial Services Cloud and Marketing Cloud, and delve into the game-changing Velocity acquisition—revolutionizing industry cloud specialization. Anna doesn't hold back as she shines a light on the crucial...

Apr 19, 20241 hr 5 minSeason 2Ep. 42

Volunteering for Salesforce Experience, Specialization and Communicating Value

Send us a text Unlock the secrets of building a thriving Salesforce career with a twist in our latest episode, where Vanessa Grant chats with the insightful Gordon Lee. We dissect the complexities of volunteering in the nonprofit sector, unraveling how these experiences can shape your career trajectory and their profound impact on the organizations you serve. Prepare to understand the ethical considerations, the importance of long-term commitment, and the nuances of the Nonprofit Success Pack an...

Apr 11, 20241 hr 21 min

Mastering Salesforce Flows - Expert Guidance From a Salesforce Strategist

Send us a text Unlock the secrets of Salesforce flows that could skyrocket your career and push your organization to new heights! Join me, Josh Matthews, and the formidable Christina Nava for a journey into the heart of Salesforce strategy. Christina's rise from user to Director of Salesforce Strategy at Gaggle is nothing short of inspiring, and she's here to share her story, passion for service cloud, and how a pandemic pivot reshaped her career trajectory. We're demystifying Salesforce flows, ...

Apr 02, 202443 minSeason 2Ep. 41

Career Acceleration with Andy Pelc, Plus Interview Tactics That Protect Your Team

Send us a text Join us on our latest podcast episode as we delve into the world of Salesforce with your hosts, Josh Matthews and Vanessa Grant. This time, we're thrilled to have Andy Pelc, an Air Force veteran turned tech director, sharing his invaluable insights. Vanessa kicks off the episode by sharing her rewarding experience of launching a Salesforce business analyst community meeting. Then, Andy takes the spotlight, bringing a wealth of knowledge from his military background that's incredib...

Mar 12, 20241 hr 27 minSeason 2Ep. 39

Navigating Professional Validation: Heartfelt Salesforce Wisdom with Vanessa and Josh

Send us a text This is a unique episode! Valentine's Day brings thoughts of love and appreciation, but what about the validation we yearn for in our professional lives? Vanessa Grant joins me, Josh Matthews to unravel the subtle need for recognition that often fuels our journey in the Salesforce community. Inspired by Vanessa's candid LinkedIn article, we reflected on the real drivers behind our work—those moments of validation that go beyond public accolades, deeply connecting us to the human s...

Feb 20, 20241 hr 31 minSeason 2Ep. 38

The Future of Tableau Expertise with Golden Hoodie, Adam Mico

Send us a text Unlock the secrets of data visualization with Tableau's own maestro, Adam Mico, who joins Vanessa Grant and me to share his inspiring journey from a late bloomer in data analysis to a Tableau Visionary and Ambassador. Prepare to have your mind opened to the possibilities of no-code and low-code features in Tableau, the power of AI integrations, and the multifaceted tool that is Tableau, as we push the boundaries of connecting with diverse data sets. Ever wondered what it takes to ...

Feb 12, 20241 hr 18 minSeason 2Ep. 37

Author Spotlight: The Making of 'ChatGPT for Salesforce Development'

Send us a text Get ready for an enlightening journey across the Salesforce universe with our latest episode, as I sit down with Salesforce MVP Joseph and AI wizard Andy. They're not just seasoned pros; they're pioneering authors who've penned the groundbreaking "ChatGPT for Salesforce Development." Explore their story of transforming the Salesforce development landscape, merging technical knowledge with business savvy, and how their new book is revolutionizing the way we think about CRM solution...

Feb 06, 20241 hr 4 minSeason 2Ep. 36

AI, MBAs, and the Future of Salesforce Careers: A Candid Career Conundrum

Send us a text Ever wondered how to strike the perfect balance between pushing for workplace innovation and respecting the status quo? Join us, Josh Matthews, alongside the insightful Fred Cadena and Peter Gansa, as we navigate this tightrope and more in our latest Salesforce Career Show. We're exchanging holiday stories, dissecting AI fatigue, and revealing how golden tickets of communication can transform your meetings from time-wasters to productivity powerhouses – all live and unfiltered in ...

Jan 09, 20241 hr 9 minSeason 2Ep. 35

2024 Salesforce Ecosystem Predictions + The Best of 2023 with Past Guests

Send us a text Buckle up for a rollercoaster ride of a discussion with our esteemed guests David Giller, John Sisson, Peter Ganza, Kristin Langlois, and Fred Cadena, as we navigate the highs and lows of 2023, and our predictions for 2024. We shine a light on the Salesforce layoffs that marked Q1, and the importance of demonstrating resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity. We also explore the future of recruiting, where AI is already revolutionizing the hiring process, and speculate ...

Dec 18, 20231 hr 53 minSeason 1Ep. 34

MVP Hall of Fame - Bill Greenhaw: Back to Basics for Success

Send us a text Guess who dropped by the Salesforce Career Show? None other than the Salesforce expert and MVP Hall of Famer, Bill Greenhaw! With a whopping 22 years of experience and 24 certifications to his name, Bill shared his journey and insights about the Salesforce platform. A key highlight was his behind-the-scenes take on the popular community conference, Tahoe Dreaming. We delved deep into his illustrious journey to MVP status and why continuous learning is the backbone of the Salesforc...

Dec 06, 20231 hr 46 minSeason 1Ep. 33

Understanding ISV's and the Salesforce AppExchange, with Peter Ganza

Send us a text Peter Ganza, the 'AppExchange Whisperer', and tech veteran Janeen Marquardt join me, Vanessa Grant, to share their insights on navigating the complex world of ISVs, product management, and the power of the AppExchange. We unravel the challenges and opportunities that Dreamforce presents for ISVs and explore alternative strategies that might be the game-changer for your business. Enter the world of product marketing through the experiences of our seasoned guests. From localizing me...

Nov 21, 20231 hr 41 minSeason 1Ep. 32

Mastering Career and Salary Negotiations: Salesforce, AI Insights, and Strategies

Send us a text Ready to excel in your career and negotiations? Join us as we share our latest career triumphs, the secrets to effective networking, and the influential power of artificial intelligence in Salesforce solutions. Our special guest, Fred Cadena, a Salesforce veteran, provides enlightening insights from his time at the Florida Dreaming conference, adding depth to our exploration of AI's role in creating efficient Salesforce solutions. But that's not all. Ever struggled with salary neg...

Nov 08, 20232 hr 2 minSeason 1Ep. 31

Enhancing Career Success through Personal Style: Expert Strategies from Stylist Janet Pak

Send us a text Are you ready to uncover the powerful link between style and career success? Join us as we welcome Janet Pak to the show, an experienced stylist, making waves in the fashion industry. Janet spills her secrets on how she helps her clients elevate their personal style to boost their self-esteem, confidence, and ultimately their professional lives. Whether you’re a freelancer working from home or a professional in a top-tier office, Janet’s style tips are designed to be versatile and...

Nov 02, 20231 hr 2 minSeason 1Ep. 30

Find Your Place in the Salesforce Ecosystem with Vanessa Grant + Dreamforce Discussion

Send us a text Have you ever found yourself puzzled by the Salesforce ecosystem and its complex nuances? Our co-host, Vanessa Grant, is here to shed light on the mysteries surrounding how to find your place in the Salesforce ecosystem. Literally, the last session of Dreamforce, Vanessa shares her session with us. We discuss her unique take on the Dreamforce abstract submission process, stirs up a conversation on the lack of vetting for sessions. We also dive deep into the importance of smaller s...

Oct 10, 20231 hr 55 minSeason 1Ep. 29

Expert Insights from Dreamforce Attendees: Leveraging Salesforce, AI and Career Advice

Send us a text In this unique episode, Josh catches up with Dreamforce attendees at Yerba Buena Park for their take on Dreamforce, biggest aha's, the best career advice they've ever received and goals for leveraging Salesforce within their own org. Ever wondered how to leverage Salesforce capabilities and build strong relationships in the workplace? Join us as we bring you the voices from Dreamforce that hold the answers. We get up close and personal with Golden Hoodie awardee Michelle Hansen, w...

Oct 03, 202329 minSeason 1Ep. 28

The Salesforce Talent Ecosystem Report with Nick Hamm and Kristin Langlois

Send us a text In this episode, we dissect the results from 10 K Advisor's research from their annual Talent Ecosystem Report and explore the up-and-coming AI-related roles, the decreased demand for talent, and the influence of the 'Great Resignation' on the hiring landscape. We also delve into the intricacies of Salesforce roles, the emergence of specialized roles, and the increasing need for fractional expertise. If you're an independent consultant or thinking about becoming one, we shed light...

Sep 28, 20231 hr 35 minSeason 1Ep. 27

Live from Dreamforce - Marketing Careers, AI Impact, and the Journey of Personal Growth

Send us a text Ready to harness the power of Salesforce and supercharge your marketing career? Join us as we navigate the Salesforce ecosystem with top Salesforce marketing industry experts Christina Anderson, Sarah Hernandez, and Shonika Mitchell. They share their insights and experiences, providing practical strategies to enhance your business needs and customer desires. We delve into the exciting world of generative AI data cloud and its potential implications for Salesforce marketing. A care...

Sep 19, 202353 minSeason 1Ep. 26

Boosting Your Salesforce Career: LinkedIn Strategies, Career Paths, and Starting a Consulting Firm

Send us a text Ever wondered how to navigate the complexities of LinkedIn and boost your career in the Salesforce ecosystem? Brace yourself for an enlightening conversation with Vanessa Grant, Fred Cadena, and Peter Ganza, as we navigate these topics and more. We dive into the vibrant Salesforce community, the upcoming Dreamforce event, and the ins and outs of successful networking in this dynamic field. We delve into deeper waters, discussing the significance of the 'Open to Work' feature on Li...

Sep 13, 20231 hr 17 minSeason 1Ep. 25

Enter the Spotlight: Navigating Public Speaking in the Salesforce World

Send us a text What if you could conquer your fear and step into the world of public speaking within the Salesforce Ecosystem? Join us for a captivating dialogue with the esteemed Janet Elliott, Manager of Solution Architecture at Kicksaw and Salesforce MVP, as we unravel the mysteries and challenges of efficient public speaking. This episode is a treasure trove of insights, tips, and strategies that will help you kick-start your speaking adventure, regardless of where you are in your Salesforce...

Sep 06, 202357 minSeason 1Ep. 24

Unlocking the Potential of Your Salesforce Partnerships: A Conversation with John Sisson

Send us a text Discover the art of maximizing relationships with Salesforce Partners, as we invite a distinguished veteran of the Salesforce landscape, John Sisson, who has a staggering 21 years of Salesforce experience under his belt along with over $70 million of combined sales. Together with our regular panelists plus partner pros including, Fred Cadena and Peter Ganza, we embark on an enriching journey exploring ways Salesforce customers can get the most out of their Salesforce partnerships....

Aug 22, 20231 hr 12 minSeason 1Ep. 23

Breaking into the Salesforce Industry: Expert Panel Q&A

Send us a text Let's imagine you are standing at the gateway of the Salesforce industry, but you have no experience or background in it. Sounds scary, isn't it? Fear not, as this episode has Jordan Nelson, a veteran in the Salesforce industry, spilling the secrets to breaking into this swelling business, with no prior experience required. Nelson underscores the necessity of developing a social proof like a website or content that showcases your knowledge even before you step into an interview. D...

Aug 16, 202359 minSeason 1Ep. 22

Jordan Nelson's Career Rocket Fuel: 86,000 LinkedIn Followers

Send us a text Just when you thought you had LinkedIn all figured out, enter Jordan Nelson, a Salesforce consultant and LinkedIn guru who's changing the game. From humble beginnings in the car industry to becoming a force in the Salesforce ecosystem, Jordan's journey is proof of the power of resilience and the magic that happens when you find your voice. Jordan shares his path from business owner in the car industry to Salesforce expert, giving us a front-row seat to his transformation. His comp...

Aug 09, 202351 minSeason 1Ep. 21

Hottest Salesforce Certifications, How to Join a Consulting Firm, Disclosing Disabilities

Send us a text Are you yearning to make a significant leap in your Salesforce career, but not quite sure where to start? Get ready to unearth the secrets of Salesforce certifications with our distinguished guests; Vanessa Grant, Steven Greger, Jason Zeikwitz, Anthony Rodriguez and Fred Cadena. We spearhead a conversation on the most sought-after Salesforce certifications and how they can remarkably boost your job market standing. We dive into the nitty-gritty of each certification and its potent...

Aug 02, 202339 minSeason 1Ep. 20

Securing Fair Compensation: Strategies for Job Offer Negotiation

Send us a text Want to secure your worth and never leave money on the table again? Buckle up for an episode packed with insights and practical advice on negotiating job offer compensation. Our special guests today are Salesforce professionals, Fred Cadena and Jason Zikawitz. Fred shares about his recent podcast relaunch, Banking on Disruption, focusing on digital transformation in finance. Meanwhile, Jason, the latest Revenue Cloud Consultant, walks us through his recent shift from a training to...

Jul 25, 202347 minSeason 1Ep. 19

Soldiers to Salesforce: Q&A with Veterans Dave Nava (Golden Hoodie) and Philip Anderson

Send us a text Ever considered a career in Salesforce after serving in the military? What if I told you that transitioning from a military career to a Salesforce professional isn't as daunting as it seems? Join us in this episode as we chat with Phillip Anderson and Dave Nava, two veterans who've walked this path successfully. They share insights from their journey and the resources they found invaluable. Have you ever wondered how to stand out in a slowing job market? Phillip, Dave, and the pan...

Jul 20, 202349 minSeason 1Ep. 18

From Armed Forces to Salesforce: Navigating the transition with David Nava and Philip Anderson

Send us a text Ready for an episode that promises to transform your perspective? We've got a special one for you today, bridging military precision with cutting-edge technology. As your hosts, we are ecstatic to bring forth the voices of veterans Philip Anderson and Golden Hoodie, David Scott Nava, who successfully transitioned from their military careers into the Salesforce ecosystem. The episode covers their unique experiences, the skills they carried from the military to their new careers, an...

Jul 12, 202344 minSeason 1Ep. 17
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