Unspoken Career Truths

Career Timeline: Stop Comparing Your Progress to Everyone Else Sep 17, 2026 00:08:33 You know that feeling when someone your age gets promoted, buys a house, starts a family—or just seems to have their whole life figured out—and suddenly you’re questioning everything?Lauren and Cara unpack the invisible timelines and “shoulds” we carry around about careers, success, relationships and adulthood. They talk about what happens when you hit a milestone you weren’t expecting, and how to

Toxic Peace: How to Build a Culture of Healthy Disagreement Sep 15, 2026 00:06:36 A workplace can look peaceful on the surface while serious problems go unspoken underneath.Toxic peace happens when teams avoid disagreement, difficult conversations, and new ideas in the name of keeping things comfortable. The result can be stagnation, unresolved problems, and a culture where people stop saying what they really think.In this episode, Cara and Lauren explore the warning signs of t

Let's Be Honest - Season 3 Sep 8, 2026 00:01:12 Unspoken Career Truths is back—and we're going from work to life.What happens when you realize your career is only one part of the life you're trying to build?In Season 3, we are expanding the conversation beyond careers to talk about the stuff that actually shapes your 20s and 30s. Money, health, happiness, friendship, love, work, and everything in between.Expect honest conversations, har

Ghosted by Recruiters, Haunted by AI: The Unspoken Truth About Job Hunting in 2026 Jun 25, 2026 00:13:09 AI-generated resumes. Fake recruiters. Hiring delays that seem to stretch forever.If job hunting feels stranger than it used to, you're not imagining it.In this season finale, Cara and Lauren explore three trends creating frustration for job seekers today: AI-generated resumes, fake job postings and recruiting scams, and the growing problem of employer ghosting and hiring delays.Drawing on their e

Stop Asking for Jobs. Start Having Conversations. Jun 18, 2026 00:19:17 The best career opportunities usually start with a conversation. They never appear on job boards and instead emerge through conversations, relationships, and professional networks built over time.In this episode, we discuss informational interviews : how to start them, what to ask, what not to do, and why these conversations can completely change the direction of your career.We cover:How to reach

Want the Job? Show Your Work. Jun 11, 2026 00:14:05 Most candidates spend interview preparation memorizing answers. The best candidates do something different. Learn what hiring managers are really looking for in interviews. In this episode, Cara and Lauren shared their best and toughest interview questions. We discuss how to communicate your thinking process, why real examples matter, and how to pivot so you can own the narrative of your career. I

Before You Apply Anywhere, Ask These 4 Questions Jun 4, 2026 00:20:01 Here's a practical framework for understanding industries, employers, skills, and opportunities in a changing job market.The job market feels confusing, contradictory, and honestly a little chaotic. One headline says nobody's hiring. Another says companies can't find talent.This episode will help you move from overwhelm to informed action. Cara and Lauren break down a simple framework

The Workplace Politics Playbook Nobody Gives You May 28, 2026 00:14:50 Nobody tells you this when you start your career: Doing great work is only part of the job.There’s also the hidden dynamics of personalities and power. In other words, workplace politics.In this episode, Lauren and Cara talk candidly about the office politics nobody explains until you get blindsided by them. From confusing promotions to invisible power structures to difficult personalities, they u

Complaining at Work: Healthy Venting or Career Sabotage? May 21, 2026 00:09:52 Venting at work can feel productive, cathartic, and even bonding. But over time, chronic negativity can quietly damage your reputation, drain your team, and limit your influence. Cara and Lauren explore the psychology of workplace complaining, why some employees become known as the “department of no,” and how leaders can address toxic venting before it spreads through company culture.We discuss:th

Perfect Doesn’t Exist, So Why Are We Chasing It? May 14, 2026 00:18:15 Perfectionism can look productive on the surface (high standards, attention to detail, ambition) but what happens when the pursuit of “perfect” starts fueling anxiety, burnout, and impossible expectations? In this episode, Lauren Livak Gilbert and Cara Wood unpack the psychology of perfectionism, how hustle culture and social media intensified it, and how to go after your own growth and happiness.

Procrastination Fixes: Why Motivation Isn’t Enough (and What Helps) May 7, 2026 00:15:11 We all procrastinate. But how can you gauge why it’s happening and how to move forward on what matters most? In this episode, Cara and Lauren break down the real reason you procrastinate (hint: it’s not laziness). From the neuroscience behind avoidance to practical tools like time blocking and accountability systems, we share how to finally take action on what matters.If you’ve ever felt stuck bet

The 3 Levels of Toxic Bosses (Most People Miss Level 2) Apr 30, 2026 00:23:27 From nightmare bosses to subtle manipulation, not all toxic bosses look the same! Misreading the signs can cost you your sanity, your confidence, and your career. In this episode, we break down the 3 levels of toxic leadership, how to spot them early, and what to do to get the boss of your dreams. Cara and Lauren unpack real signs, share relatable examples (yes, including our favorite fictional vi

How to Manage Up at Work (Without Feeling Manipulative) Apr 23, 2026 00:18:41 Ever feel like you’re doing everything right at work and somehow still getting blindsided?In this episode, Lauren and Cara break down the underrated skill that can change everything: managing up. From meetings that go completely off the rails to the invisible dynamics that shape how decisions actually get made, they unpack what’s really going on behind the scenes.You’ll learn how to:Understand wha

Wisdom Under Fire: Is “Lead by Example” Enough? Apr 16, 2026 00:10:12 Is “lead by example” the golden rule of leadership, or is it incomplete?In this episode of Wisdom Under Fire, Cara and Lauren unpack the origins of this familiar phrase, from ancient philosophy to modern leadership thinking. Part leadership playbook, part reality check, the conversation might make you rethink how you show up every day.If you answer emails on weekends… your team probably feels like

Balancing Support and Strategy in Servant Leadership Apr 9, 2026 00:15:06 If you’ve ever thought, “I want to be a great manager” this episode will crystalize how. We discuss the ins and outs of servant leadership. Lauren and Cara talk about burnout, boundaries, invisible wins, and why leadership isn’t about picking a single style. If you're navigating early leadership roles, balancing ambition with empathy, or figuring out your management style, this episode will gi

You're in Charge, Now What? Apr 2, 2026 00:18:51 New leader? Don’t panic, this episode has you covered. Cara and Lauren share the first hurdles you’ll face when managing people, projects, and expectations. Learn how to prioritize your team, communicate effectively, make critical decisions, and define your leadership style without losing yourself in the process. From navigating relationships with former peers to taking your seat at a new table of

Network Upgrade: How to Build Connections That Lead to Real Opportunities Mar 26, 2026 00:23:44 If networking feels fake or uncomfortable, you’re doing it wrong. This episode covers how to build real connections that open doors—without forcing yourself into someone else’s style. Cara and Lauren discuss a more authentic approach to networking—one rooted in curiosity, small intentional actions, and genuine connection. You’ll learn how to start conversations without the awkwardness, build relat

From Burnout to Bounce Back: How to Train Resilience Mar 19, 2026 00:16:48 Resilience isn’t something you are—it’s something you build. Cara and Lauren break down the science, share real-life strategies, and show how to create your own “moat” to handle stress, burnout, and change.

The Power of Kind Leadership: Practicing Empathy at the Office Mar 12, 2026 00:26:11 Empathy isn’t just a “nice-to-have.” It’s the skill that separates good managers from great leaders. In this episode, Cara and Lauren explore how empathy drives trust, engagement, and performance at work, even in a world full of automation and AI.Learn actionable strategies to:Understand and respond to the emotions of your teamPractice active listening and perspective-takingUse empathy to navigate

Affective Presence: How to Influence the Mood and Improve Your Impact Mar 5, 2026 00:25:57 Ever wonder why some people can walk into a meeting and change the energy in the room? In this episode, Cara and Lauren break down effective presence: the invisible skill that makes you more influential, persuasive, and memorable at work.Learn how to:Read the room and respond to moods before they derail your teamUse your energy intentionally — without faking it — to guide outcomesBalance leadershi

Mentor or Coach: How to build and nurture powerful work relationships Feb 26, 2026 00:25:37 Everyone says mentorship matters for career growth.But not every stage of your career calls for a mentor.In this episode, Cara and Lauren break down the difference between mentoring and coaching and how knowing which kind of support you need can shape your professional development.They unpack:The real difference between a mentor and a coachWhen to seek skill-based coaching vs long-term guidanceHow

Wisdom Under Fire: Does “Go Fast Alone” Actually Hold Up in the Age of AI? Feb 19, 2026 00:14:29 If you’ve ever wondered whether teamwork really makes work better — or just more complicated — this conversation offers a more honest framework.We interrogate the popular phrase “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together” — and asks whether it actually reflects how work, progress, and collaboration function today.Cara and Lauren unpack the historical roots of the saying,

Find Your People: Why Community Matters More Than Ever at Work Feb 12, 2026 00:21:35 As AI removes “starter tasks,” remote work reduces organic connection, and career paths become less linear, community is no longer optional—especially for early-career professionals. In this episode, Lauren and Cara break down what community really means, why it drives performance and belonging, and how to build it intentionally. From being generous with context to showing up consistently, we shar

The New Rules of Teamwork in a Hybrid, AI-Driven World Feb 5, 2026 00:20:42 AI is everywhere. Hybrid work is here to stay. Productivity is under the microscope. So… what still makes good teamwork possible?In this episode, Cara and Lauren take a look at the future of work by focusing on what they don’t want to lose. From great teamwork to shared celebrations, they explore the elements of work culture that never go out of style even as everything else changes.There’s practi

Navigate Generation Gaps: Setting Boundaries and Building Team Success Jan 29, 2026 00:26:43 Navigating a multi-generational workplace isn’t always easy, but it’s more important than ever. In this episode, Lauren and Cara explore the generational divide and share practical strategies for improving workplace communication, setting boundaries, and leveraging the unique strengths of every generation. From understanding why a Gen Z team member prefers texting to why a Boomer might avoid insta

Listener Q: Is My Role at Risk Under New Management? Jan 27, 2026 00:06:56 When new management comes in, it’s hard not to wonder what it means for your job. In response to a listener question, Cara and Lauren unpack a familiar but rarely discussed scenario: a company acquisition, the introduction of an external agency, and the quiet fear that job security might be fragile.This anxiety is valid, but more responsibility can actually signal trust. Learn how a role shift mig

AI as a Coworker: What to Trust, What to Guard, and What Humans Still Own Jan 22, 2026 00:31:31 What does it actually mean to work alongside AI?In this episode we break down the future of work through a clear, practical lens: AI as a coworker, not a replacement. Together, we unpack the difference between generative AI and agentic AI, where automation helps (and where it absolutely shouldn’t), and why humans still own judgment, context, and responsibility.You’ll hear how to think about AI lik

Rates, Raises, and Reality Checks: How to Work With the Economy You’ve Got Jan 15, 2026 00:19:28 The economy gets blamed for everything—but what does it actually mean for your career?In this episode, we translate today’s biggest economic headlines into real workplace implications. We break down interest rates, inflation, unemployment, and explain how they affect raises, job security, and career decisions. You’ll learn why economic forecasts are always uncertain, how CPI can quietly signal a p

What's Next? Season 2 is all about the future of work Jan 13, 2026 00:01:04 We're back in your feed every Thursday to be the co-workers you can trust. There's so much changing in the world! And Lauren thinks bell bottoms might make a comeback... so there's a LOT to discuss. This season we're going to be focusing on providing you resources and information on how best to navigate changes and succeed without burning out or selling your soul. Season 2 Trailer for Unspoken Car

Wisdom Under Fire: Find Your Purpose Dec 4, 2025 00:12:07 We’re told to find our purpose, like it’s hiding somewhere waiting to be discovered. But what if purpose isn’t something you find, it’s something you build? In this week’s Wisdom Under Fire, Lauren Livak Gilbert and Cara Wood unpack the pressure behind the phrase “find your purpose” and share how their own definitions have evolved over time. From life-changing realizations to small, everyday choic

Holiday Chaos: The Perfect Cover to Forge Office Friendship Dec 2, 2025 00:10:11 The holidays at the office bring a strange mix of sparkle and strain. One moment you are laughing with coworkers at a team party. The next you are wondering how to set a boundary without feeling like the difficult one. We share the quiet truths about connection at work during a season that can feel louder than usual.By the end, you might find yourself seeing this time of year a little differently.

Soft Power: Don't Overlook this Secret Strength Nov 20, 2025 00:09:29 Not all power is loud or forceful. In this episode of Unspoken Career Truths, Lauren Livak Gilbert and Cara Wood unpack the underestimated art of soft power—the ability to influence through credibility, connection, and authenticity rather than authority. They explore how emotional intelligence, communication, and presence can drive real impact (and why soft power often fuels the biggest shifts beh

The Art of Stress-Free PTO: Handoffs, Boundaries & Actual Rest Nov 18, 2025 00:11:32 There is a moment many of us recognize. You look at your PTO balance and realize you have not taken a real break in months. Maybe it feels risky to step away. Maybe you worry about the pile waiting when you return. Or maybe rest has become one more thing you have to manage. In this conversation, we unpack the quiet pressures around taking time off, the habits we pick up from teams and past jobs, a

Wisdom Under Fire: Assume Best Intent Nov 12, 2025 00:06:51 What happens when “assume best intent” collides with workplace reality?It’s a phrase that’s been echoed everywhere from ancient texts to modern boardrooms. In this episode of Wisdom Under Fire, Cara and Lauren unpack one of the most quoted — and most misunderstood — pieces of modern leadership advice. We found a reframe for the phrase that adds a powerful twist. This is a must-listen for anyone na

WTF Does That Even Mean? It's Acronym Soup Nov 11, 2025 00:09:43 Buckle up for a little acronym therapy. In this episode of Unspoken Career Truths, Lauren Livak Gilbert and Cara Wood dive into the alphabet soup of corporate life and laugh about how we all pretend to know what they mean.Decode the alphabet soup of corporate life: OKRs, KPIs, ROI, CRM, TL;DR and the company-specific acronyms that make you wonder if you missed a secret onboarding. We explore how a

From Resistance to Resilience: How to Get Better at Change Nov 6, 2025 00:10:56 Change is inevitable, often difficult, and it’s also how we grow. Learn to navigate change at work with more resilience, adaptability, and calm.In this episode, we explore what it really means to navigate change at work—from new leaders and shifting teams to evolving technology and workplace culture. Cara and Lauren share stories, humor, and practical frameworks for developing emotional intelligen

AI at Work: How to Supercharge, Not Surrender, Your Career Nov 4, 2025 00:12:30 Will AI take your job—or make it better than ever? The future of work isn’t about replacement; it’s about reinvention. Learn how to supercharge your career by partnering with AI, not fearing it.In this episode of Unspoken Career Truths, hosts Lauren and Cara dive into one of the most urgent and misunderstood conversations happening in offices everywhere: the role of artificial intelligence at work

Wisdom Under Fire: "That's Above my Pay Grade" Oct 30, 2025 00:10:16 We've all heard it: “That’s above my pay grade.” In this “Wisdom Under Fire” episode, we debate the hidden implications of this common workplace phrase, from deflecting responsibility to signaling boundaries. Hosts Cara Wood and Lauren Livak Gilbert share strategies for navigating situations where tasks feel too high-profile, unclear, or political. You’ll learn how to respond with professionalism,

Nail Year-End Reviews: How to Reflect, Grow, and Get Promoted Oct 28, 2025 00:11:18 Most of us approach year-end reviews with a deep sigh and a pile of paperwork. But what if you could turn that annual ritual into one of the most valuable career tools you have? In this episode of Unspoken Career Truths, hosts Cara Wood and Lauren Livak Gilbert unpack how to prepare, what to track, and how to use your review conversations to set yourself up for next-level growth. You’ll leave with

Why Most Projects Fail: How to Avoid Scope Creep Oct 23, 2025 00:10:32 Projects can go awry for all kinds of reasons - but one of the most frustrating ways to fail is scope creep. The expansion of a project or role beyond the initial goals and definitions. In this episode of Unspoken Career Truths, hosts Cara Wood and Lauren Livak Gilbert talk about what it is, why it happens and how to communicate these issues so your projects stay reasonable and meet their targets.

Big Decision? Choose the Right Method for the Best Outcome Oct 21, 2025 00:10:29 When you've got a big decision on the horizon it can feel overwhleming. Whether it's a career move, a relationship choice, or a personal goal, the weight of the decision-making process can be overwhelming. In this episode of Unspoken Career Truths, hosts Cara Wood and Lauren Livak Gilbert break down how to approach these moments, and how to employ the right framework to get an outcome you can be c

Wisdom Under Fire: Follow Your Passion Oct 16, 2025 00:12:48 Is following your passion the golden ticket to success?It’s time for another debate of commonly held wisdom! In this episode of Unspoken Career Truths, hosts Cara Wood and Lauren Livak Gilbert talk about the realities of pursuing what you love versus choosing a stable or well trod path.

Know Your Value: How to Recognize Your Worth and Communicate It at Work Oct 14, 2025 00:12:47 If you don’t know your value, it’s hard to expect others to recognize or reward it. In this episode of Unspoken Career Truths, hosts Cara Wood and Lauren Livak Gilbert dive into practical ways to identify, track, and communicate your worth at work. From documenting your impact and asking for feedback to benchmarking your role against the market, you’ll learn strategies to overcome imposter syndrom

Feedback Week! Part 2: Give feedback like it's a gift Oct 9, 2025 00:11:08 Giving feedback is tricky—done wrong, it stings; done right, it sparks growth.n this episode of Unspoken Career Truths, hosts Cara Wood and Lauren Livak Gilbert break down how to move past vague notes and ego-driven critiques to deliver feedback that empowers. From practical tactics (mirror, don’t weaponize) to a simple framework—Context, Observations, Results, Expectations—they’ll show you how to

Feedback Week! Part 1: The Art of Receiving Feedback Oct 7, 2025 00:11:50 Getting feedback can feel personal — but it’s actually one of the fastest ways to grow. In this episode of Unspoken Career Truths, hosts Cara Wood and Lauren Livak Gilbert unpack how to stay grounded when feedback stings, what to do in the moment, and how to turn critique into clarity.

Wisdom Under Fire: What Gets Measured Gets Managed Oct 2, 2025 00:13:18 Does measuring something really guarantee better results? In this Wisdom Under Fire episode of Unspoken Career Truths, hosts Cara Wood and Lauren Livak Gilbert unpack the famous phrase “what gets measured gets managed.” They explore where it came from, why it matters, and how to apply it in today’s workplace. From defining success early to quantifying the unquantifiable and tracking your own wins,

Navigating Layoffs: Practical Advice for Every Side of the Table Sep 30, 2025 00:15:16 Layoffs happen. And they impact the entire organization. Whether you’ve been laid off, left behind or you’ve been the one to wield the axe, there are tactics to employ and feelings to feel. In this episode of Unspoken Career Truths, hosts Cara Wood and Lauren Livak Gilbert discuss our experience in these positions and actionable things to do depending on how you are impacted.

The Pros & Cons of Stress: How to Stay Balanced Sep 25, 2025 00:11:03 Stress is part of life but how you manage it makes all the difference. In this episode of Unspoken Career Truths, hosts Cara Wood and Lauren Livak Gilbert explore the difference between healthy stress and harmful stress, share personal strategies to reduce overwhelm, and reveal simple practices like movement, creativity, and self-check-ins that can help you reset. Whether you’re navigating workpla

The Power of Influence: Building Credibility, Trust, and Impact Sep 23, 2025 00:11:43 Influence matters more than job titles sometimes. In this episode of Unspoken Career Truths, hosts Cara Wood and Lauren Livak Gilbert break down what true influence looks like and what it doesn’t. Learn how to build credibility, practice empathy, communicate with clarity, and use storytelling to get buy-in without manipulation. Whether you’re early in your career or leading a team, this episode wi

Wisdom Under Fire: Hustle Culture Sep 18, 2025 00:12:10 Is hustle culture driving your success or your burnout? In this episode of Unspoken Career Truths, hosts Cara Wood and Lauren Livak Gilbert debate the hustle culture mentality. From burnout and decision fatigue to redefining productivity and setting boundaries, they explore how to work hard without losing balance. Tune in for practical strategies to build a sustainable career that prioritizes both

Find Your Buckets: Balance Career, Life, and Fulfillment Sep 16, 2025 00:12:54 Ever feel like you’re trying to “have it all” but still running on empty? In this episode of Unspoken Career Truths, hosts Cara Wood and Lauren Livak Gilbert explore the concept of “buckets” the areas of life that fuel your energy, identity, and fulfillment. From career and relationships to health, creativity, and purpose, learn how to define your own buckets, keep them balanced, and give yourself

Which One Is My Water Glass? Business Lunch Etiquette Sep 11, 2025 00:16:47 Business lunches aren’t just about food they’re about first impressions, relationships, and professional etiquette. In this episode of Unspoken Career Truths, hosts Cara Wood and Lauren Livak Gilbert share the do’s and don’ts of dining in a professional setting. From menu prep to table manners, phone etiquette, and whether to order that glass of wine, you’ll learn the unspoken rules that can make

Beyond the Resume: How Soft Skills Shape Your Career Success Sep 9, 2025 00:12:08 Forget the buzzwords—soft skills aren’t just nice to have. They’re the superpowers that shape careers. In this episode, hosts Cara Wood and Lauren Livak Gilbert dig into why adaptability, problem-solving, and EQ matter more than you think and how growth mindset research proves these skills are learnable. From interviews to everyday teamwork, learn how to identify your strengths, steal tricks from

Wisdom Under Fire: Dress for the Job You Want Sep 4, 2025 00:11:52 It's time for another debate! Is "dress for the job you want" good advice or does it add fuel to an already image-obsessed culture? In this episode of Unspoken Career Truths, hosts Cara Wood and Lauren Livak Gilbert put this "Wisdom Under Fire" and take different sides of the arguement.

Your Career Is Not a Ladder, It’s a Jungle Gym Sep 2, 2025 00:12:00 Think success means climbing a straight ladder? Think again. In this episode of Unspoken Career Truths, hosts Cara Wood and Lauren Livak Gilbert share why careers are more like jungle gyms; zigzags, swings, and unexpected turns included. From owning non-traditional paths to letting go of “shoulds,” you’ll hear practical advice on finding fulfillment, defining success on your own terms, and embraci

HR, Hot Takes, and Workplace Drama Aug 28, 2025 00:13:40 Ever accidentally eavesdrop on someone’s HR call? We did. Hosts Lauren Livak Gilbert and Cara Wood break down a real-life, emotionally charged conversation between a new restaurant employee (let’s call her Sarah) and HR—no real names, just vibes. This episode dives into the messy gray area of workplace relationships, trust, and communication. If you’ve ever been a new hire, had to discuss a compla

Evaluate Your Sphere of Influence to Reign in Workplace Stress Aug 26, 2025 00:15:14 Calling all control freaks - this episode is for you. Hosts Lauren Livak Gilbert and Cara Wood discuss how mapping out where you can have influence can help save your sanity in a stressful work environment and direct your energy towards the things that you can in fact change.

Wisdom Under Fire: Fake it til You Make it Aug 21, 2025 00:15:15 Let's debate a phrase you might hear everywhere: Can you really fake it til you make it? This is the first in our "Wisdom Under Fire" series where we take sides and debate whether common advice is helpful, hurtful, or something in between.

The Salary Negotiation Playbook They Don’t Hand You at Work Aug 19, 2025 00:13:05 There's a secret to becoming an amazing negotiator and it's not about undermining or outwitting everyone around you. In this episode of Unspoken Career Truths, hosts Cara Wood and Lauren Livak Gilbert, discuss the insights you need to understand your own emotional responses to difficult conversations in order to stay calm and get what you want.

Time Is Your Currency—Your Calendar Needs a Security Guard Aug 13, 2025 00:13:28 We all get the same 24 hours —but why does it feel like some people are getting so much more done? In this episode of Unspoken Career Truths, hosts Cara Wood and Lauren Livak Gilbert break down what real time management looks like at work—no 5 a.m. miracle routines, no color-coded calendars required. Learn how to take control of your day with time audits, focus rituals, and realistic prioritizatio

Meet Your New Co-Workers Aug 13, 2025 00:03:38 Welcome to the first episode of Unspoken Career Truths! We are your hosts Cara Wood and Lauren Livak Gilbert and we are here to be your trusted co-workers as you navigate your career.

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