Best John Neral Podcasts (2025)

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John Neral's Story: How a Personal Journey Shaped a Career Coach's Approach 31:00

12d ago31:00

31:00

The journey to authenticity often begins with our most challenging personal moments. In this profound conversation with career coach John Neral, we explore how his experience of coming out to his parents at age 28 shaped not just his personal life but fundamentally transformed his professional approach to leadership and coaching. Whether you're fac…

1
Brave Conversations: Preparing for Life-Changing Discussions - Skill Builder 9:50

5d ago9:50

9:50

We've all faced moments when a deeply personal truth demands to be spoken, yet everything inside us screams to stay silent. These brave conversations—whether coming out to loved ones, revealing major life changes, or addressing difficult topics—represent defining moments in our personal and professional lives. Share your story or inflection point w…

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295: Surviving Restructuring, Reorganizations, Layoffs, and RIFs: What Mid-Career Professionals Need to Know 30:09

3d ago30:09

30:09

Send us a text Navigating a job loss or corporate shakeup? In this must-listen episode, career expert John Neral explains the real differences between restructuring, reorganization, layoffs, and RIFs, and how mid-career professionals can stay grounded through uncertain times. Whether you're affected by government DOGE initiatives, private-sector do…

1
294: Career Help That Won't Break the Bank (But Will Change Your Life) 27:31

12d ago27:31

27:31

Send us a text The career landscape has changed—and mid-career professionals are feeling the pressure. In this candid and insightful episode, John Neral shares how he’s evolving his coaching business to better serve professionals navigating job searches, career transitions, and workplace uncertainty. After eight years of full-time coaching, John re…

1
Networking to Build Relationships - Skill Builder 15:33

19d ago15:33

15:33

We build protective stories around our awkward experiences, convincing ourselves we're simply not cut out for schmoozing in crowded rooms or making small talk with strangers. These narratives serve a purpose – they shield us from discomfort and potential rejection. What if we're missing out on valuable connections by staying safely on the sidelines…

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293: Navigating Career Grief: From CBS Executive to Moonshot Mentor with Laverne McKinnon 33:48

19d ago33:48

33:48

Send us a text What do you do when a dream job ends in heartbreak? In this eye-opening episode of The Mid-Career GPS Podcast, host John Neral sits down with Laverne McKinnon, former Senior VP of Drama Development at CBS, to talk about a rarely acknowledged experience: career grief. After leading CBS from last place to first with mega-hits like CSI …

1
Scott Fleszar’s Story: From Layoff to First-Time CEO 34:56

26d ago34:56

34:56

In this episode, we explore powerful themes of resilience, reinvention, and the importance of staying connected. Scott Fleszar shares how a sudden career disruption became a catalyst for reflection and transformation. Rather than being defined by circumstance, he embraced change with intention. His story demonstrates how a strong network can open u…

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292: How to Build Your Personal Board of Directors for Career Success with Dominic Imwalle 32:20

26d ago32:20

32:20

Send us a text If your career is stuck in neutral, maybe it’s not your résumé—it’s your relationships. In this powerful episode, I sit down with Dominic Imwali, Senior Consultant at Deloitte and founder of DX Consulting, to unpack why genuine, face-to-face connections are the real catalyst for career growth—especially in mid-career transitions. Dom…

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The Mindset Advantage: Mastering Leadership Agility - Skill Builder 8:15

1M ago8:15

8:15

The journey of leadership often requires us to make choices with incomplete information and limited time. Drawing from my conversation with Scott Hanton about his career-defining moment when he had to decide between working for an unsuitable leader or stepping into leadership himself, I explore how we can better navigate change and uncertainty. Sco…

1
291: Kind Curiosity: How to Navigate DEI Conversations with Bernadette Smith 30:36

1M ago30:36

30:36

Send us a text How can mid-career professionals engage in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) conversations without fear of saying the wrong thing? Bernadette Smith, CEO of the Equality Institute, shares her ARC Method—Ask, Respect, Connect—a simple yet powerful approach to fostering authentic connections while ensuring psychological safety at w…

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Scott Hanton's Story: The Reluctant Leap to Leadership 43:00

1M ago43:00

43:00

Sometimes in life, we find ourselves at a crossroads that prompts uncomfortable yet exciting changes. In this episode, I speak with Scott Hanton, a seasoned researcher who faced the unexpected decision of transitioning from the world of scientific research to a pivotal leadership role. As Scott recounts his journey, he paints a vivid picture of wha…

1
290: When Professional Meets Awkward: How a Job Interview Took an Unexpected Turn 18:58

1M ago18:58

18:58

Send us a text Have you ever faced an interview so awkward that it left you questioning everything? In this episode, I share a hilariously uncomfortable yet eye-opening moment from my mid-career transition—when I found myself in a final-round interview, staring at a superintendent’s exposed belly button. What started as a bizarre wardrobe malfuncti…

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How Kindness Shapes Workplace Dynamics - Skill Builder 6:14

2M ago6:14

6:14

Explore the transformative power of kindness in leadership in this inspiring episode. Through real-world examples, I highlight how compassion and thoughtful communication strengthen relationships and create a more supportive team environment. Small, intentional acts of kindness can have a profound impact, fostering collaboration and trust within an…

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289: Revenge Quitting: Take This Job and....Actually, Wait a Second 23:05

2M ago23:05

23:05

Send us a text Feeling trapped in a toxic workplace and fantasizing about a dramatic exit? Before you burn bridges, this episode dives into the psychology of revenge quitting and why it’s often more damaging than liberating. While the impulse to quit in protest is understandable, the long-term consequences—especially in today’s uncertain job market…

1
Anthony Marzilli's Story: Chasing Passion, Finding Balance Through Entrepreneurship 37:32

2M ago37:32

37:32

What drives someone to leave a stable career with Detroit's top sports franchises and dive into the uncertain world of entrepreneurship? Anthony Marzilli, a seasoned video and motion graphics editor, shares his journey of chasing passion and balance. He opens up about the pivotal moments that led him to prioritize family over a demanding job, offer…

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288: Client Success Story: How Melissa Mwai Took the "Ick" Out of Networking 30:28

2M ago30:28

30:28

Send us a text In this insightful episode, Melissa Mawai shares her inspiring journey from corporate project management to becoming a published children's author and illustrator. After the passing of her father and the global pandemic, Melissa found herself at a crossroads—one that led her to pursue her true passion for storytelling. Now, with five…

1
The Power of Choosing Your Own Career Path - Skill Builder 8:23

2M ago8:23

8:23

In this episode of Short Story Long, we explore the power of owning your career choices and breaking free from traditional corporate paths. Reflecting on Theresa’s inspiring journey from HR to sustainability, we discuss the emotional and practical aspects of redefining success on your own terms. Learn how to navigate uncertainty, build a strong sup…

1
287: Three Ways You're Sabotaging Your Job Search & Career 24:24

2M ago24:24

24:24

Send us a text This episode explores how mid-career professionals unknowingly sabotage their job search by "playing small." With over 172,000 layoffs announced in February 2023—a staggering 245% increase from January—accelerating your job search is more critical than ever. Common pitfalls that hinder success include: Searching for the "perfect" str…

1
Theresa’s Story: Her Career Transition to Sustainability 34:19

2M ago34:19

34:19

What happens when a seasoned HR professional decides to pivot her career path entirely? Join us as we uncover Theresa's remarkable journey from a successful 25-year career in human resources to a burgeoning role in sustainability. Theresa shares the pivotal moments that urged her to take this leap of faith, Theresa’s story shines a light on the imp…

1
286: How to Navigate Job Uncertainty in 2025 & Stay in Control of Your Career 32:28

2M ago32:28

32:28

Send us a text Feeling anxious about job security in today’s unpredictable market? You’re not alone. In this episode of The Mid-Career GPS Podcast, host John Neral breaks down the most pressing concerns facing mid-career professionals in 2025. Drawing from a recent webinar, John shares expert insights and actionable strategies to help you take char…

1
285: Listen to What You Say to Others About Your Job 19:56

3M ago19:56

19:56

Send us a text Do You Love Your Job or Just Like It? Your Career Narrative Shapes Your Satisfaction Have you ever stopped to ask yourself: Do I truly love my job, or do I just like the people I work with? In this insightful episode, we explore what it really means to feel fulfilled in your career—and why the stories you tell yourself about your job…

1
284: Insights for Mid-Career Leadership Transformation with Jordana Cole 36:38

3M ago36:38

36:38

Send us a text Are you ready to elevate your leadership skills and navigate mid-career transitions with confidence? In this episode of The Mid-Career GPS Podcast, I sit down with leadership and talent expert Jordana Cole to uncover the essential leadership qualities that drive success in 2025 and beyond. Jordana shares her transformational journey—…

1
283: Navigating the 2025 Job Market: White-Collar Recession, DEI Challenges & Career Strategies 33:43

3M ago33:43

33:43

Send us a text Are you ready to tackle the evolving job market of 2025? With economic uncertainty, political shifts, and corporate restructuring, mid-career professionals face unique challenges—especially as the "white-collar recession" unfolds. In this episode, we dive deep into the latest job market trends, the future of DEI initiatives, and esse…

1
Season 2 Trailer 0:54

3M ago0:54

0:54

In this new season, host Beki Fraser goes beyond her own journey to explore the defining moments that shape careers and leadership. Each episode features conversations with leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals who have navigated pivotal decisions—embracing change, overcoming fear, and leading with authenticity. 💡 What does it take to recognize…

1
282: Unlocking Career Success with Consistency, Courage, and Curiosity with Elena Agaragimova 35:08

3M ago35:08

35:08

Send us a text How can shifting your mindset transform your mid-career success? In this episode, talent development specialist and entrepreneur Elena Agaragimova shares how embracing a generalist mindset has been her superpower in navigating diverse industries. We explore the impact of imposter syndrome, the value of practical skills over education…

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281: Tips for Finding a Career Coach 31:15

3M ago31:15

31:15

Send us a text Ready to take your career to the next level? In this episode of The Mid-Career GPS Podcast, I will guide you through everything you need to know about finding the ideal career or leadership coach to help you thrive professionally. Whether you're stuck in career stagnation, navigating transitions, or striving for that next promotion, …

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280: Transform Your Performance Review Now 15:32

4M ago15:32

15:32

Send us a text Performance reviews don’t have to be dreaded formalities—they can be golden opportunities for career growth. In this episode of the Mid-Career GPS Podcast, discover how to transform these annual check-ins into powerful tools for advancement. Learn to take control, articulate your ambitions, and steer conversations toward your desired…

1
279: Proven Resume and Cover Letter Tips for 2025 with Stephen Greet 30:15

4M ago30:15

30:15

Send us a text Get ready to revolutionize your job application strategy with cutting-edge insights from Stephen Greet, CEO of BeamJobs. In this episode, we dive deep into crafting resumes and cover letters that will catch the eye of advanced AI-driven applicant tracking systems and resonate with hiring managers in 2025. Stephen shares his unique en…

1
278: Embrace Simplicity & Grow Your Career in 2025 21:05

4M ago21:05

21:05

Send us a text Embrace simplicity and transform your mid-career journey as we kick off Season 5 of the Mid-Career GPS Podcast! Imagine a year where you focus only on what truly matters, letting go of the noise that clutters your path to success. Join me in this episode as I share my commitment to simplicity in 2025 and how it can guide you toward g…

1
277: Top Mid-Career Success Trends for 2025 22:29

4M ago22:29

22:29

Send us a text This episode reflects on important lessons from 2024 to help mid-career professionals navigate the job market and elevate their careers as they enter 2025. Key insights include the necessity of networking, the importance of flexible work arrangements, embracing leadership, committing to lifelong learning, and prioritizing personal we…

1
276: Happy Holidays and Rediscovering Your Career Freedom 12:19

5M ago12:19

12:19

Send us a text Remember the thrill of receiving that one special gift that changed everything? For me, it was the Ross Apollo three-speed bicycle on a Christmas morning. It wasn't just a bike; it was a ticket to freedom and endless joy. This episode invites you to revisit those powerful emotions of liberation and happiness and challenges you to inj…

1
Short Story Long Season 1 Bonus Episode 27:00

5M ago27:00

27:00

In this bonus episode, Richard Dodds -- my producer and friend -- joins me to celebrate the end of our first season and the exciting path ahead. We reflect on the pivotal moments that shaped this journey, from overcoming initial challenges to embracing the art of storytelling. Richard's encouragement and collaboration were key in transforming an in…

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275: "That's Above My Pay Grade" - Setting Boundaries Without Burning Bridges 18:58

5M ago18:58

18:58

Send us a text In today’s episode, we’re diving into a simple yet powerful phrase that can reshape how you navigate workplace challenges: “That’s above my pay grade.” Far from being dismissive or defensive, this phrase—when used thoughtfully—can set clear boundaries, safeguard your professional integrity, and help you approach tough situations with…

1
From Self-Doubt to Self-Empowerment: The Journey into Entrepreneurship 14:08

5M ago14:08

14:08

What if the key to unlocking your true potential lies in unraveling the complex web of self-perception? Join me, Beki Fraser, as I share my candid and transformative journey from self-doubt to self-discovery. You'll hear about the challenges I faced, the breakthroughs I experienced, and how confronting my own beliefs became a catalyst for growth an…

1
274: Three Networking Tips for the Holidays 22:56

5M ago22:56

22:56

Send us a text The Holiday season brings a lot of parties and gatherings—and pressure. If you don't enjoy the Holiday work party, I hope you'll listen to this episode as I share three tips to help you network during this season. Networking can be particularly frustrating for introverts but these three tips will help anyone build a networking strate…

1
Navigating Life's Curveballs: Resilience in Personal and Professional Storms (Novella) 7:12

5M ago7:12

7:12

What happens when you're caught in the crossfire of life's curveballs, wearing multiple hats and juggling personal turmoil with professional duties? Join me, Beki Fraser, on Short Story Long as I peel back the layers of resilience needed to navigate stormy waters. These stories are not just tales of endurance but of learning when to draw the line, …

1
273: Mastering the 30-Minute Job Interview: What You Need to Know 21:56

5M ago21:56

21:56

Send us a text Curious about how to make a lasting impression in just 30 minutes? Discover the secrets to mastering a job interview with precision and confidence. This episode uncovers strategies to showcase your skills while aligning perfectly with company expectations efficiently. I'll guide you through the importance of curiosity, showing how se…

1
The Caregiver's Balancing Act: Love, Guilt, and Growth 19:36

6M ago19:36

19:36

Join me, Beki Fraser, as I share my journey through the ups and downs of caring for aging parents from afar. As I navigate the emotional landscape of guilt and love, you'll learn how family bonds can stretch across miles, and how respecting a parent's independence becomes a delicate balance. Along the journey of illness and loss, the importance of …

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272: Feeling Sick of Your Job 16:33

6M ago16:33

16:33

Send us a text Feeling stuck or fed up with your current job situation as the holiday season looms? You're not alone. Thanksgiving may bring gratitude for some, but for many mid-career professionals, it also shines a spotlight on job dissatisfaction and the struggle to find career joy. Join me as I unpack these seasonal pressures and share my journ…

1
From Advertising Exec to Entrepreneur: Jason's Journey of Resilience and Change (Novella) 7:06

6M ago7:06

7:06

Ever wondered how a successful advertising executive could end up molding young minds and running his own business? Join me, Beki Fraser, as I share my friend's story. Jason's life took unexpected turns that shaped him into the resilient entrepreneur he is today. With each challenge, he took them head-on and found the courage to re-evaluate his pat…

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271: From the Baseball Field to Leadership & Team Success with Mike Robbins 32:13

6M ago32:13

32:13

Send us a text What happens when your childhood dream comes crashing down? Join my conversation with Mike Robbins, a former professional baseball player turned renowned keynote speaker and leadership expert. Mike's journey from the baseball field to the corporate stage is a testament to the power of resilience and reinvention. Discover how he navig…

1
Redefining Success: A Courageous Shift from HR to Coaching 18:09

6M ago18:09

18:09

Leaving the familiar shores of HR, I embarked on a transformative journey into the world of entrepreneurship. In this episode, I recount my personal story of recognizing my old role was no longer inspiring to me and the awakening call of coaching. This journey was full of challenges and rewards, and it highlights the importance of listening to one'…

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270: Should You Ask About Hiring Objections in Your Job Interview? 14:49

6M ago14:49

14:49

Send us a text Should you ever ask a hiring manager if they have any objections to hiring you? This episode of the Mid-Career GPS Podcast tackles this job interview conundrum head-on. Learn to navigate the nuances of this controversial question and discover how it might impact your chances of landing the job. We explore the boldness and potential p…

1
Choosing Change: When Staying Safe No Longer Feels Right (Novella) 6:21

6M ago6:21

6:21

What if stepping away from your current professional life could reveal the truth about who you are? Join Beki Fraser as she recounts her transformative journey post-Argentina and the somewhat unexpected challenges she faced upon returning to the U.S. Beki takes us through the pivotal moments that led her to reassess her career choices. She'd spent …

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269: You Don't Have to Love Your Career with Dr. Joy Zhao 34:52

6M ago34:52

34:52

Send us a text Discover the transformative journey of Dr. Joy Zhao, a trailblazer in the world of data science who turned personal career setbacks into a narrative of resilience and purpose. Dr. Zhao candidly shares her evolution from facing unemployment to leading top-tier teams, revealing the pivotal stages of viewing work merely as a job to embr…

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Argentina Bound: Leaping into Growth and Embracing Support 16:36

6M ago16:36

16:36

Feeling stuck and unfulfilled in your career? This episode will help you see dissatisfaction as a catalyst for profound transformation. Join me, Beki Fraser, as I recount a pivotal moment in my HR career when I was feeling low, only to find an unexpected opportunity that changed everything. Discover how boldly taking an international assignment tau…

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268: Estate Planning Essentials for Mid-Career Professionals with Andrea Bryk 36:22

6M ago36:22

36:22

Send us a text What happens if you are no longer here or unable to care for yourself? How protected are your loved ones? We all need to have this conversation, but many mid-career professionals avoid it because they don’t feel they need to or have to. In this episode, you'll meet Andrea Bryk, who believes everyone, not just the wealthy, deserves pe…

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Hitting the Wall: Burnout and Change Fatigue are Real (Novella) 7:16

7M ago7:16

7:16

Navigating constant career changes and organizational upheavals can feel like an endless roller coaster. Have you ever found yourself in a position where your role changes constantly and you find yourself on the brink of burnout? Join Beki Fraser as she shares her personal journey through these challenges and the pivotal moments that forced her to …

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267: CRUSH Your Next Job Interview: Transform Your Nerves into Confidence 13:09

7M ago13:09

13:09

Send us a text Unlock the secrets to mastering your job interviews and transforming anxiety into confidence. Imagine walking into your next interview not overwhelmed by nerves or fixated on the outcome, but fully present and prepared to showcase your unique value. This episode promises to equip you with essential mindset shifts to revolutionize you…

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Move for Love: Finding Love in Unexpected Places 16:19

7M ago16:19

16:19

Can love truly strike in the most unexpected places? Join us as we share the whimsical and heartwarming tale of how an unplanned encounter led to a night of meaningful conversations and a revoked wedding invitation. Beki Fraser recounts this serendipitous beginning that ultimately blossomed into a deep and enduring connection with her husband. This…

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John Neral Podcasts

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