The Thrive Careers Podcast - podcast cover

The Thrive Careers Podcast

My career wasn’t a straight line—it was a series of pivots, survival jobs, and soul-searching moments. It really began when I decided I couldn’t keep feeling stuck and unfulfilled. I set out to find clarity, reignite my confidence, and create a career that actually made sense for me. That journey led me here—and now I help others do the same.

I’m Olajumoke Fatoki—a career coach, HR strategist, and advocate for newcomers, women, and mid-career professionals trying to build work that fits their life, not the other way around.

On the Thrive Careers Podcast, I share everything I’ve learned from walking that path—plus honest conversations with experts and real people navigating their own career crossroads. Whether you’re job hunting on a Post-Graduate Work Permit, re-entering the workforce after burnout, or trying to grow into leadership, this space is for you.

💼 You’ll get:

  • Practical job search and LinkedIn strategies (with an AI edge)
  • Support through career pivots and big transitions
  • Real talk about imposter syndrome, burnout, and confidence
  • Insights on how to grow a career that’s aligned and sustainable

Some guests are seasoned pros. Others are still figuring it out. But every story brings you closer to your own version of thriving.

🔔 New episodes every week.
Subscribe if you’re ready to stop guessing and start building a career that finally feels like home.


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Episodes

Start Small, Win Big: How Micro Goals Build Career Momentum

In this reflective solo episode, Olajumoke Fatoki shares a personal moment that turned into a powerful career metaphor: taking a walk with her son led to the realization that progress begins with small, intentional steps . If you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure where to begin in your career journey , this episode offers a practical roadmap to get moving. Olajumoke challenges listeners to shift from vague goals to specific micro actions that create momentum. Whether it’s applying to two ...

Jul 17, 202511 minSeason 1Ep. 26

The Influencer Economy: Why Visibility Is the New Résumé

Are you tired of applying to job after job and hearing nothing back? Wondering why others with less experience seem to get ahead while you’re stuck in career limbo? In this game-changing episode of the Thrive Careers Podcast , Olajumoke Fatoki breaks down why your résumé alone isn’t enough in today’s job market—and how the influencer economy has reshaped the way professionals land opportunities. You’ll learn why visibility, credibility, and relationships are more important than ever—and how to p...

Jul 09, 202513 minSeason 1Ep. 25

Elevate Your LinkedIn Presence and Build Meaningful Career Visibility

Feel invisible on LinkedIn—or unsure how to make AI actually work for your job search? You’re not alone. And the good news? You don’t have to be a tech expert or influencer to build a standout profile. In this episode, career coach and HR strategist Olajumoke Fatoki chats with Al Kushner , author of The AI LinkedIn Advantage , about how to make LinkedIn work for you —with the help of AI tools that save time and boost visibility. 💡 You’ll learn: How to use AI to write stronger LinkedIn summaries...

Jul 02, 202517 minSeason 1Ep. 24

How a TEDx Talk Can Skyrocket Your Career with Terry Fossum

Think TEDx is only for celebrities or industry experts? Terry Fossum’s journey proves otherwise. From growing up in one of the poorest U.S. cities to leading nuclear bomber crews in the Air Force, surviving solo treks in the Amazon and Arctic, winning a Fox reality survival show, and becoming a #1 bestselling author and award‑winning actor—Terry’s story is the ultimate underdog tale. His iconic TEDx talk, “Why You Didn’t Reach That Goal…Again,” reached the top 2 TEDx talks globally, applying Nob...

Jun 25, 202530 minSeason 1Ep. 22

Why Relying on Personality Labels Could Be Sabotaging Your Career Growth

What if your personality test is the reason you’re stuck—and don’t even know it? Been told you’re “not leadership material”? Think you’re “too introverted for sales”? Popular tests like Myers-Briggs and the Enneagram might be boxing you in—and quietly sabotaging your career decisions. In this episode, psychologist and researcher Dr. Shannon Sauer-Zavala pulls back the curtain on the science behind personality—and explains how the labels we trust most often do more harm than good. 💡 You’ll learn...

Jun 18, 202531 minSeason 1Ep. 21

How Successful People Quietly Battle Self-Doubt and What You Can Do to Manage It

Do you ever worry someone will find out you’re not as capable as you seem—despite everything you’ve achieved? That’s not just self-doubt. It’s imposter syndrome —a hidden mindset that convinces even the most high-achieving professionals they’re undeserving of their success. And it’s quietly robbing your career confidence , clarity, and joy. In this empowering episode of the Thrive Careers Podcast , psychologist and talent agent Dr. Albert Bramante joins career strategist Olajumoke Fatoki to expl...

Jun 11, 202526 minSeason 1Ep. 20

How to Change Careers After 30 Without Starting From Scratch

Feel stuck in a career that no longer lights you up—but afraid it’s too late to pivot? You’re not alone. And more importantly—it’s not too late. In this inspiring episode of the Thrive Careers Podcast , career coach and HR strategist Olajumoke Fatoki sits down with Katie O’Malley , Founder of (en)Courage Coaching , to bust the myth that you have to start over to make a meaningful career change after 30 . 💡 Inside this episode, you’ll learn: Why your past experience isn’t wasted—it’s leverage Ho...

Jun 03, 202536 minSeason 1Ep. 19

Why Burnout Isn’t a Badge of Honor and How to Set Boundaries That Protect Your Career

She used to be the top performer on her team—until one day, she couldn’t get out of bed. What her manager saw as laziness was actually burnout —chronic emotional exhaustion caused by blurred boundaries, nonstop pressure, and the silent expectation to always be “on.” Sound familiar? In this powerful Mental Health Awareness Month episode of the Thrive Careers Podcast , host Olajumoke Fatoki sits down with clinical psychologist Oyin Oladipupo to unpack how burnout hides in plain sight at work—and w...

May 21, 202526 minSeason 1Ep. 18

How to Leave Your 9–5 Without Burning Out or Going Broke (Expert Approach)

Are you stuck in a job that looks good on paper but feels misaligned in real life? You're not alone—and you're not crazy. You’re evolving. And so is the 9 to 5. In this transformational episode, career coach and HR expert Olajumoke Fatoki breaks down the real reason you feel stuck, uninspired, or burned out at work—and how to start planning your next career move before a crisis forces your hand. We’re talking about building your career escape plan , rewriting your narrative, and shifting your mi...

May 13, 20259 minSeason 1Ep. 17

Confused About Your Career in Your 20s? Build Clarity, Confidence, and Get Ahead Fast

Feeling stuck or unsure about your career path in your 20s? You’re not alone—and this episode of Thrive Careers Podcast is here to help you gain clarity without the pressure. Career coach Olajumoke Fatoki teams up with Brianne Rush, VP of Operations and founder of The Independence Lab, to share a proven framework that helps Gen Z professionals stand out, get promoted, and build confidence in a competitive job market. In this episode, you’ll discover how to: Use emotional intelligence (EQ) to lan...

May 06, 202535 minSeason 1Ep. 16

How to Find Hidden Job Opportunities and Make Bold Career Moves

Ever wonder how some professionals land amazing roles that are never posted online? The truth is, most great jobs are filled through networks and strategy—not job boards. In this episode of Thrive Careers Podcast, career coach Olajumoke Fatoki talks with Gina Riley, a career strategist who helps professionals at all levels find meaningful work through smarter job search tactics and personal branding. What You’ll Learn: How to find hidden job opportunities before they’re public Ways to define and...

Apr 29, 202531 minSeason 1Ep. 15

Is Your Workplace Truly Inclusive? Unpacking 2025’s DEI and Leadership Shifts

What if the biggest challenge in your career isn’t artificial intelligence—but how you choose to lead alongside it? Most companies are missing the mark on DEI , struggling with real employee engagement , and fearing AI will replace them. But here’s the truth: The future belongs to HR professionals who know how to co-create with technology while keeping human connection at the heart of workplace culture. Join Olajumoke Fatoki and cultural leadership expert Dr. Frank Gonzalez as they reveal: 💡 Th...

Apr 22, 202535 minSeason 1Ep. 14

The Pay Raise Code: How to Ask for More Money without Fear or Guilt

Still doing more but getting paid the same? You’re not alone—and your mindset around pay might be part of the problem. In this episode of the Thrive Careers Podcast , host Olajumoke Fatoki sits down with Scott Trumpolt to uncover what really drives long-term pay growth. They go beyond the surface-level talk of raises and bonuses and dig into career architecture, market-based compensation, and how employees can take control of their pay trajectory. 🔍 You'll discover: Why your salary hasn’t grown...

Apr 16, 202539 minSeason 1Ep. 13

The Confidence Code: How To Speak Up Without Freaking Out

Nervous in job interviews? Hate speaking up in meetings? You’re not alone—and the good news is, confidence is a skill you can build. In this powerful episode, confidence coach and college professor Tim Newman joins Olajumoke Fatoki to share how you can build communication skills that truly transform your personal and professional life. You’ll discover: ✔️ How to overcome speaking anxiety and fear of public speaking ✔️ The STAR method for interview success ✔️ Why storytelling makes you memorable ...

Apr 08, 202539 minSeason 1Ep. 12

Why Work Feels So Heavy: Healing Generational Trauma and Breaking Survival Mode

Is your stress at work more than just deadlines and pressure? If burnout, people-pleasing, or self-doubt feel constant—it may be more than a workload issue. It could be generational. In this eye-opening episode of Thrive Careers Podcast, host Olajumoke Fatoki speaks with licensed therapist Nikita Pechan about how unhealed generational trauma can quietly shape your career, relationships, and leadership style. What You’ll Learn: How generational trauma impacts your mindset and behavior at work Sig...

Apr 01, 202539 minSeason 1Ep. 11

From Setbacks to Success: How to Turn Career Struggles Into Growth and Confidence

What if the setbacks in your life were actually the setup for your greatest success? In this raw and empowering episode of the Thrive Careers Podcast , host Olajumoke Fatoki sits down with Charlotte Bidgood —an executive HR leader and co-founder of Inclusive People —to explore her powerful journey from teenage motherhood to becoming a successful entrepreneur and human resources leader . 🔥 Inside this episode, you’ll discover: How to turn adversity into a catalyst for personal and professional g...

Mar 25, 202536 minSeason 1Ep. 10

How to Be Taken Seriously at Work: Leadership Influence Hacks Without the Title

Think leadership is just for managers? Think again. True influence isn’t about titles—it’s about impact. 💡 Unlock the secrets of effective leadership and learn how to wield influence without holding a formal title. In this episode, we delve into actionable strategies that empower you to lead confidently, foster authentic connections, and drive impactful change within your organization. Whether you're aiming to boost your career growth, enhance team dynamics, or cultivate a culture of trust and ...

Mar 18, 202537 minSeason 1Ep. 9

Exhausted, Distracted, and Burned Out? Here’s the Real Reason—and How to Fix It

Ever wake up exhausted—despite getting a full night’s sleep? It’s not just you. In today’s hyper-connected world, digital overload is draining your focus, energy, and creativity—even when you think you’re resting. In this powerful episode of the Thrive Careers Podcast , host Olajumoke Fatoki sits down with workplace culture expert Craig to unpack the growing crisis of digital overwhelm in today’s fast-paced, tech-driven work environments. From non-stop notifications to Zoom fatigue, they dive de...

Mar 12, 202554 minSeason 1Ep. 8

Feel Behind in Your Career? Use Digital Leadership to Catch Up—and Lead

Feel like everyone else is moving faster in their career—and you’re stuck trying to catch up? You’re not alone. The digital world is evolving rapidly, but you don’t have to get left behind. In this episode of Thrive Careers Podcast, host Olajumoke Fatoki sits down with award-winning digital strategist Esther Obafemi to unpack how mid-career professionals can stay relevant, adapt with confidence, and build the skills that matter most in today’s workplace. What You’ll Learn: The must-have digital ...

Mar 04, 202551 minSeason 1Ep. 7

Feeling Stuck in Your Career? How Mentorship Can Unlock Your Next Big Move

Feeling stuck or unsure of your next career move? The right mentor could be the missing link between where you are and where you want to be. In this inspiring episode of Thrive Careers Podcast, host Olajumoke Fatoki sits down with Dr. Deborah Heiser, founder of The Mentor Project, to unpack the transformative power of mentorship in your career. They explore: Why mentorship is a game-changer for personal and professional growth How to find and build meaningful mentoring relationships The role of ...

Feb 26, 202548 minSeason 1Ep. 6

“Tired of Being Ignored? Use These Networking Moves to Finally Get Job Offers

Sending out applications but hearing crickets? If you’re tired of being ghosted or overlooked, your networking strategy might be the missing piece. In this practical episode of Thrive Careers Podcast, host Olajumoke Fatoki breaks down the networking mistakes that keep job seekers stuck—and reveals the strategies that actually lead to job offers. You’ll learn: How to build authentic connections that open real opportunities The difference between passive and intentional networking Where to find th...

Feb 18, 202549 minSeason 1Ep. 5

Struggling to Land Interviews? Fix Your Resume with These Keyword & ATS Hacks

Tired of sending out resumes and hearing nothing back? It might not be your experience—it might be your resume. In this episode of Thrive Careers Podcast, host Olajumoke Fatoki teams up with resume expert Chantal Sneath to reveal what really works when it comes to beating the ATS and standing out to hiring managers. You’ll learn: How to write a resume that gets past automated filters and into human hands The right way to use keywords that align with your target job Simple formatting tricks to av...

Feb 11, 202535 minSeason 1Ep. 4

Burnout Is Real—Here’s How to Recover Without Quitting Your Career

Burnout doesn’t always look like collapse—it often starts with quiet exhaustion, chronic stress, and the feeling that no matter how hard you try, it’s never enough. In this empowering episode of Thrive Careers Podcast, host Olajumoke Fatoki is joined by wellness coach and burnout recovery expert Esther Avant to have a deeply honest conversation about what burnout really is, how it affects your performance, and how you can bounce back without walking away from your career. Together, they explore:...

Feb 04, 20251 hr 1 min

Don’t Get Left Behind: The 2025 Tech Trends That Will Shape Your Career

Staying relevant in today’s job market is no longer optional—it’s essential. Nath knew this firsthand. Working in a role he enjoyed, he began noticing the quiet shift—skills he once relied on were becoming obsolete, automation was creeping in, and the digital demands of his field were accelerating fast. But instead of resisting change, he leaned into it—investing in learning, building connections, and gaining the digital edge that helped him rise. In this episode of Thrive Careers Podcast, host ...

Jan 29, 202549 minSeason 1Ep. 2

Crush Your Career Goals in 2025: A No-Fluff Guide to Getting Ahead

Are you ready to make 2025 your breakthrough year? In this episode of the Thrive Careers Podcast, we explore the transformative power of goal setting to supercharge your career success in the year ahead. Whether you’re just starting your journey, climbing the corporate ladder, or pivoting into a new field, this conversation will provide practical insights to help you set and achieve goals with clarity and purpose. Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode: Seasonal Alignment: How to align your ca...

Jan 14, 202552 minSeason 1Ep. 1

Career Anxiety Is Real—Here’s How to Reclaim Your Confidence in 2025

Are you a corporate professional feeling stuck, second-guessing yourself, or dreading the unknown? You’re not alone—and you’re not broken. Career anxiety is more common than you think, especially in a world that’s changing faster than ever. In this episode of Thrive Careers Podcast, host Olajumoke Fatoki shares powerful mindset shifts to help you quiet the noise, embrace uncertainty, and show up with boldness and clarity in 2025. You’ll discover: Why anxiety is often a signal—not a stop sign The...

Dec 28, 20246 min
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