Episode description
How do soft skills shape success in a remote-first world?
In this episode of the Distributed podcast, Host Jack Hannah chats with Callie Buruchara, Senior Software Engineer at Uplift Agency, to explore how mastering communication and emotional intelligence (particularly in a remote work setting) can transform your career. Callie shares her journey from high school English teacher to software engineer and how her people-first approach became her superpower.
Plus, hear Callie’s take on balancing deep work, managing expectations, and why some of the toughest lessons often come from unexpected places.
Highlights:
- Navigating remote work dynamics and adapting to different communication styles to foster collaboration and reduce misunderstandings
- The power of emotional intelligence in building trust and resolving conflict within distributed teams
- Callie’s strategies for balancing prioritization, managing time effectively, and protecting mental health
- Why addressing friction early and practicing honest communication strengthens team dynamics
- How soft skills, like empathy and vulnerability, often play a pivotal role in technical success
In this episode, we cover:
(00:00) – Kicking Things Off with Callie Buruchara
(03:00) – Why Soft Skills Matter: From Career Transition to Tech Success
(08:00) – Adapting to Different Communication Styles in Remote Teams
(12:00) – Balancing Prioritization and Mental Health While Working Remotely
(18:00) – The Role of Emotional Intelligence in Resolving Workplace Conflicts
(23:00) – Building Trust Through Feedback: Addressing Friction Before It Escalates
(28:00) – Lessons from Remote Work: Navigating Loneliness and Staying Connected
(33:00) – Vulnerability as a Strength: How Honesty Improves Team Dynamics
(37:00) – Final Takeaway: Why Soft Skills Are Key to Thriving in Tech
Where to connect further:
Connect with Callie Buruchara on LinkedIn and her Website
Email Callie at callie.buruchara@hey.com
More about Uplift Agency Ltd.
More about firstpromo.dev
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