Shows
The Career EquationA New Chapter: Finding Purpose in Retirement, with Jed NovickWe’ve all had those moments — wondering if we’re just drifting through our careers without a map.
In this episode, Erica speaks with Jed Novick, a journalist turned lecturer, now at a turning point as he approaches retirement. Jed’s journey — from writing spoof TV listings to mentoring students — is a reminder that a meaningful career can emerge from the most unexpected turns.
Before becoming an academic, Jed worked at the BBC, The Independent, and other major outlets. Now, he shares what he’s learned about storytelling, legacy, and staying curious.
This isn’t just a s...2025-06-3031 min
The Career EquationWhy the Environment Makes the Difference in Your Career with Erica Sosna & Zoë SchofieldHow much does your work environment really matter? More than you might think.
Erica and Zoë take a deep dive into the role environment plays in career satisfaction and success. It's not just about the job title or company name—it's about where you feel alive and can truly thrive. This episode gets into how the right setting fuels your growth and performance, and how the wrong one can feel like trying to fit a square peg into a round hole.
Join the conversation as they unpack the nuances of environment, offering insights into how to...2025-06-2335 min
The Career EquationBacking Yourself in Tough Times with Jayne BrierleyWhat happens when the industry you’ve given decades to starts crumbling — and what comes next?
In this episode, Zoë talks to Jayne Brierley — a seasoned TV producer turned consultant, who’s helping production companies shape stories, win commissions, and keep British storytelling alive. From stepping back during burnout to jumping into consultancy with clarity, Jayne shares what she’s learned from both the highs and lows of a creative career.
It’s a masterclass in adaptation — and a reminder that the magic happens when you stay true to your voice, even in uncertain...2025-06-1629 min
The Career EquationImpact: What Matters Most – with Erica Sosna & Zoë SchofieldWe all want to make an impact — but what does that actually mean?
In this episode, Erica and Zoë explore one of the most powerful (and personal) elements of the Career Equation. Impact is the difference you make — in your work, your world, and the lives of others. But it’s also where energy comes from. When you feel like your work matters, everything shifts.
This is a reflective, practical guide to working out what success means to you, and how to measure it on your own terms — not just titles, salary, or what’s trending on...2025-06-0934 min
The Career EquationUS Tech Founder: Anya Cheng & Thriving in the Chaos of Starting UpHow do you keep going when the path ahead is full of unknowns?
In this episode, Zoë is joined by tech entrepreneur Anya Cheng for a rich, honest conversation about navigating change — and backing yourself when things feel uncertain.
Anya’s story takes us from early career rejection and visa struggles to founding her own company, Taelor, which helps people look sharp without the usual stress of shopping or laundry. Along the way, she talks about the skills she’s carried through it all — resilience, connection, and a knack for solving problems in unconventional ways.
It’...2025-06-0234 min
The Career EquationIdentify Your Career Passions With Erica Sosna & Zoë SchofieldIn this episode, Erica and Zoë take a deep dive into one of the most powerful (and misunderstood) parts of career fulfilment: passion.
They explore how to actually figure out what excites you — not just hobbies or dream jobs, but the stuff that gives you energy, matters to you, and makes work feel worth doing. Whether it’s a topic, a cause, or simply a way of working, passion plays a big role in helping us feel like we’re in the right place.
They also share personal stories, coaching insights, and practical ways to make us...2025-05-2626 min
The Career EquationExpert Special: The Skill Seekers, with Niamh O’Connell - Talent Integration Director, Flutter InternationalIn this episode, Erica chats with Niamh O’Connell, Talent Integration Director at Flutter International, about what really makes careers feel fulfilling — and what gets in the way.
They dig into what it means to take ownership of your own development, why traditional frameworks often fall short, and how to build support around people in a way that actually works.
Niamh shares how her team is rethinking career paths, supporting self-led growth, and helping people find the right fit — not just the next role. They talk honestly about what it takes to shift mindsets, give managers the right tools, and create r...2025-05-1933 min
The Career EquationFrom Burnout to Purpose: Winston Clements on Redesigning Life on His TermsWhat if burnout wasn’t the end — but the beginning of designing a life entirely on your own terms?
In this episode, Erica Sosna sits down with Winston Ben Clements — global speaker, resilience coach and inclusion advocate — to explore how a shift from a tech career to the speaking stage became not just a career pivot, but a whole new way of living.
Winston shares candidly about navigating corporate environments as a disabled professional, the early signs of burnout, and the pivotal moment he realised he wanted a different kind of life. From...2025-05-1234 min
The Career EquationIdentify Your Transferable Skills With Erica Sosna & Zoë SchofieldIt’s easy to undervalue the things that come naturally — especially when they don’t come with a fancy title or certificate. But those everyday strengths you’ve developed over time? They’re your transferable skills — and they matter more than ever in today’s fast-moving world of work.
In this episode, Erica and Zoë explore why transferable skills are so powerful, and how to uncover the ones you might be taking for granted. From planning a family holiday to leading a team project, the skills you build across all areas of life often hold the key to your...2025-05-0539 min
The Career EquationExpert Special: From Tick Box to True Impact (Jonathan Black, Part 2)In this second part of Erica’s conversation with Jonathan Black, Head of Oxford University’s Careers Service and careers columnist for the Financial Times, they explore how to truly prepare for a 21st-century career — one driven by impact, adaptability, and learning.
From internships to alumni networks, Jonathan shares practical insights into how students can gain meaningful work experience, discover career paths they hadn’t considered, and gain clarity around what really matters. They also discuss the evolution of careers advice, the growing importance of purpose-led roles, and how to navigate a career change with intention...2025-04-2834 min
The Career EquationExpert Special: From Wake Up Calls to Wise Choices (Jonathan Black, Part 1)In this first part of a fascinating two-part conversation, Erica sits down with Jonathan Black, Head of Oxford University’s Careers Service, to explore how career journeys really unfold — and why sometimes a wake-up call in a French farmhouse or a cheap motel can lead to some of the most pivotal, empowering choices.
With a career that spans engineering, publishing, consulting and entrepreneurship, Jonathan reflects candidly on the pivots, missteps, and moments of clarity that shaped his path — and the patterns he sees in the students and professionals he’s advised over the years.
...2025-04-2140 min
The Career EquationMaking Sense of Your Career Story With Erica Sosna & Zoe SchofieldIt’s easy to focus on the future when thinking about your career — the next role, the next promotion, the next leap. But what if some of your most useful career clues are hiding in the past?
In this episode, Erica and Zoë dig into the power of reflection. They explore how looking back at your career journey so far — the highs, the lows, and everything in between — can help you make smarter, more intentional decisions about what comes next. You’ll hear why your past experiences matter, how to spot the patterns that reveal what really makes you t...2025-04-1426 min
The Career EquationBreaking Free: Turning a Passion for Health into a Purpose-Driven New Career ft. Charlotte PascoeJoin Zoë Schofield on this inspiring episode of The Career Equation Podcast as she welcomes Charlotte Pascoe, founder of Signature Fitness and an advocate for holistic health and wellness. Charlotte shares her incredible career transformation—from a demanding corporate role in local government to a thriving career in personal training and sports therapy. By combining her leadership skills, passion for health, and a deep connection with her clients, Charlotte demonstrates that it’s never too late to chase a fulfilling, purpose-driven career.
Through the lens of the Career Equation framework, Charlotte and Zoë unpack the personal and profes...2025-04-0745 min
The Career EquationCareer at a Crossroads: From Side Hustles to Success ft. Anna HarperHow do you design a career that aligns with your values, leverages your strengths, and drives meaningful impact? Erica Sosna sits down with property investment powerhouse Anna Harper to unravel the balancing act between ambition and focus. With a career spanning over a decade in property and investment, Anna has navigated every twist and turn—whether building trust with individual investors, managing complex deals, or driving change at scale.
But, like many high-achievers, Anna has faced the daunting challenge of pursuing parallel paths that both demand her energy. Join Erica and Anna as they use The...2025-03-2435 min
The Career EquationI Turn Conflict into Connection And Save Families ft. Marcie ShaoulJoin host Zoë Schofield as she dives into an inspiring conversation with Marcie Shaoul, founder of Rolling Stone Coaching and the award-winning The Co-Parent Way, on this powerful episode of The Career Equation Podcast. Through her unique career story, Marcie reveals how personal experience, passion, and purpose drove her to make a lasting impact on families, businesses, and individuals. Together with Zoë, they explore Marcie’s career using the Career Equation framework, offering deep insights into why skills, passion, impact, and environment are crucial for your own thriving career.
✨ Key Takeaways:
From Setback to Solutio...2025-03-1046 min
The Career EquationSpecial Episode: How to Visualise Your Career Success - with Erica SosnaEpisode Overview:
Do you feel like you’re chasing someone else’s version of success? It’s time to hit pause and ask the question that matters most—what does success mean to YOU?
In this compelling episode of The Career Equation Podcast, Erica Sosna dives deep into the truth about career success. She unpacks how societal pressures, family expectations, and workplace norms influence our goals, often without us realising it. With 21 years of experience as a career coach, Erica shares practical tools and thought-provoking insights to help you redefine success on your own terms.
...2025-02-2428 min
The Career EquationSpecial Needs Teacher to Quirky Victorian Rapper ft. Paul AlboroughGet ready to be whisked away on an unforgettable career adventure! On this episode of The Career Equation Podcast, Erica Sosna sits down with the one and only Paul Alborough—better known to his devoted fans as Professor Elemental. From navigating the world of special needs education to donning a pith helmet and rapping about tea, Paul’s career is anything but ordinary.
What’s Inside This Episode
From Teacher to Creator: Discover how Paul transitioned from teaching teenagers with special needs to carving out a niche as a steampunk-inspired chap-hop artist.
Viral Success & Creativity: Paul shares the backst...2025-02-1048 min
The Career EquationThrough Fashion to Fulfilment: Exploring Enoughness ft. Melanie RickeyOn this episode of The Career Equation Podcast, Erica Sosna sits down with Melanie Rickey, Style Director at Good Housekeeping, and founder of the Enoughness Movement and podcast. Melanie shares her remarkable career story, from breaking barriers in the fashion industry to creating a movement centred on living with "enoughness." She offers a fresh perspective on redefining success, finding balance, and reclaiming agency in a world driven by excess.
Melanie reflects on her career highs, including mentoring emerging fashion talent and shaping influential stories in prominent publications like The Sunday Times Style. She also opens u...2025-02-0340 min
The Career EquationResilience, Inclusion, and Reinventing Careers ft. Ollie ThornThis week on The Career Equation Podcast, Erica Sosna welcomes Ollie Thorn, an accomplished speaker, advisor, and consultant specialising in resilience, culture, and diversity. Ollie’s inspiring career spans the military, professional sports, the charitable sector, and corporate leadership. From an unexpected spinal cord injury that drastically altered his life to becoming a father earlier this year, Ollie shares his incredible story of reinvention and growth.
The episode dives deep into Ollie's transition from feeling lost after his injury to becoming a passionate advocate for disability inclusion, leveraging storytelling to drive cultural change, and helping bus...2025-01-2743 min
The Career EquationHow Career Coaching Changes Lives ft. Nina BainbridgeNina Bainbridge is an executive coach who designs leadership programmes and looks to empower people with the skills to transform their everyday conversations in order to solve problems and make lasting connections.
Having worked with young people in a prison and matrons in a teaching hospital, she wants to change the view that coaching is only available to a select few, and encourage a broader range of people to understand the positive impact that it can have on their lives.
Key topics discussed
The beginnings and essentials of coa...2025-01-2035 min
The Career EquationSuccessful Tech Careers ft. Dan WallmanWhat happens when entrepreneurial spirit meets a passion for social impact? Join Erica Sosna and guest Dan Wallman, social entrepreneur and founder of both DV8 and TechNative, as they tackle the critical technical skills gap in the workforce. On this episode of The Career Equation, Dan reflects on his two-decade legacy building creative and skills-focused education programs and his newest mission to deliver employer-ready talent through an innovative, industry-led bootcamp model.
Through the lens of the Career Equation framework, Erica and Dan explore his strengths in vision and innovation, his passion for empowering others, and his goal...2025-01-1332 min
The Career EquationRediscovering Your Career Sweet Spot ft. Annabelle ThebaudHow do successful leaders transition into roles that truly align with their strengths and aspirations? Join Erica Sosna as she sits down with Annabelle Thebaud, a global HR and ESG expert, on this episode of The Career Equation. With over 20 years of corporate leadership experience spanning continents, Annabelle shares her inspiring career story, her passion for building human connections, and her ongoing quest to identify her zone of genius.
Through candid reflections, Annabelle explores her unique approach to connecting with diverse teams, navigating leadership transitions, and creating human-centered environments that foster success. Erica uses the C...2025-01-0634 min
The Career EquationMy Purpose is to Save Lives ft. Larry PearlmanBalancing a purpose-driven career with personal fulfilment can feel like solving an equation with too many variables. Join Erica Sosna in this episode of The Career Equation as she sits down with Larry Pearlman, a seasoned safety consultant and founder of Safety and Consulting Associates. With over 30 years of experience, Larry is an expert in safety culture, change management, and building systems that protect lives.
Larry discusses his career evolution from HR to becoming an industry leader in safety, guided by pivotal moments and a passion for keeping people safe. Erica helps Larry unpack his conundrum of...2024-12-3045 min
The Career EquationThree Simple Questions for Career Success with Erica Sosna & Zoë SchofieldGet ready to wrap up the year with a powerful conversation! Join hosts Erica Sosna and Zoë Schofield as they share their proven three-question framework to simplify career conversations and make them meaningful, whether you're an individual navigating your next steps or a manager empowering your team.
This festive episode explores how to reflect on past achievements, plan for future success, and prepare for 2025 with clarity and purpose. Erica and Zoë reveal why preparation is key, how curiosity can lead to breakthroughs, and what managers can do to create an open, supportive environment for growth.
🎯 What...2024-12-2335 min
The Career EquationRedefining Success on Your Terms ft. Lucy CaponHow do you redefine your career to prioritise both impact and balance? On this episode of The Career Equation, Zoë Schofield speaks with Lucy Capon, founder and marketing director of Wellhouse, a consultancy dedicated to helping purpose-driven businesses grow and thrive. After a decade as head of marketing in the finance sector, Lucy made a bold leap—leaving corporate life for a remote working adventure in Thailand while building her own consultancy from scratch.
Lucy reflects on her career transition, her passion for coaching, and her approach to creating impactful marketing strategies. Using the Career Equation framework, Zoë...2024-12-1535 min
The Career EquationThe Business Case for Career Conversations with Erica Sosna & Zoë SchofieldWhy do career conversations matter to businesses and individuals—and how can they lead to tangible results? On this episode of The Career Equation, Erica Sosna and Zoë Schofield team up to explore the business case for career conversations. They discuss how using the Career Equation framework creates a win-win scenario for organisations looking to retain top talent and for individuals seeking clarity and growth in their careers.
From reducing attrition to building a personalised approach to skills development, Erica and Zoë share how businesses like Savills, Microsoft, and Capital One have benefited from embedding structured career conv...2024-12-0934 min
The Career EquationUnderstanding Gen Z at Work ft. Kian BakhtiariHow can young people have a real say in shaping the future they'll live in? Join Erica Sosna and her guest Kian Bakhtiari, founder of The People, a Gen-Z-focused consultancy, on The Career Equation, as they explore this vital question. Kian’s mission is to amplify young voices through creativity and collaboration, helping businesses and the next generation work together for meaningful change.
Kian shares his inspiring personal story of adapting to new environments, the challenges young people face in decision-making and the workplace, and the potential of Youth Advisory Boards to revolutionise how businesses work. Through th...2024-12-0234 min
The Career EquationThe Art of Improvisation in Business ft. Heather UrquhartDiscover how the principles of improvisation can transform businesses and careers in this exciting episode of The Career Equation Podcast! Erica Sosna sits down with Heather Urquhart, an award-winning professional improviser and founder of And Also Improv, to explore the untapped potential of creativity and adaptability in the corporate world.
Learn how improvisation techniques like “listening, saying yes, and committing” can revolutionise communication, foster innovation, and enhance team collaboration. Heather shares her journey of balancing parenthood with running a creative business, while also navigating her career conundrum of transitioning from the stage to becoming a credible entrepreneur in cor...2024-11-2539 min
The Career EquationHow transferable skills can transform your career ft. Paul MullinsFor many, a career spanning 35 years in global finance might seem like the pinnacle of stability and success. Paul Mullins is an exception to this. He is a former leader at HSBC. He sought a new challenge that prompted an unexpected career shift. He transitioned from corporate leadership to consultancy. In this episode of The Career Equation Podcast, Paul reflects on his leadership journey. He shares valuable insights into navigating the challenges of a major career change. He shares about transitioning into consultancy and mastering the art of communication.
"Moving from a big corporate to a consultancy...2024-11-1833 min
The Career EquationHow to Co-design a Job You Love ft. Susan EmmettJoin host Erica on The Career Equation podcast as she delves into the art of creating a fulfilling career with Susan Emmett, Social Value Director at Stantec. Susan’s journey from journalism to business development offers unique insights into embedding social value into business strategies. Her career path highlights the importance of aligning professional ambitions with personal values, providing invaluable lessons for those seeking career satisfaction.
In this episode, Susan elucidates the concept of social value, illustrating its shift from a corporate formality to a vital business strategy influenced by public expectations and legislative frameworks like the So...2024-11-1137 min
The Career EquationAlex Seftel’s Career Growth from Student Media to BBCAlex Seftel's journey in journalism is a testament to the power of seizing opportunities and embracing career growth. Learn about the Career Equation and how it can transform your professional path!
In today's episode of the Career Equation, we sat with Alex, a versatile journalist and BBC podcast producer. From student media to BBC podcasts, Alex's career shows curiosity, adaptability, and a willingness to step out of his comfort zone. He shares, "I wanted to get into sports because I've been a sports fan, although that hasn't been my upbringing. My parents aren't interested in sport that...2024-11-0431 min
The Career EquationEmployee Engagement is the key to my Diversity Agenda w/ Holly SmithOn the latest episode of The Career Equation Podcast, we sit down with Holly Smith. She is a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Partner at Personio. We explore the critical role of employee engagement, HR strategies, and culture in the modern workplace. Holly has a Employee background in leading DEI initiatives. She has a deep passion for driving inclusion within organizations. Holly offers a distinctive view on the role of HR as a strategic partner in meeting business objectives. This is especially relevant for tech companies.
“HR teams can be strategic partners to departments,” Holly explains. She high...2024-10-2833 min
The Career EquationHarness Your Superpower at Work w/ Jeffrey WotherspoonIn today's episode of the Career Equation, we sit down with Jeffrey Wotherspoon. He is an executive and leadership coach. Known for his exceptional work in diversity, inclusion, and personal development, Jeffrey has turned his superpower into a tool for creating safe learning environments. He has accreditations from the International Coaching Federation. Jeffrey brings a wealth of experience to the table. Jeffery’s coaching audience spans from young men in prison to high-level executives. He aims to help individuals succeed and reach their full potential. He seeks to foster empathy, understanding, and collaboration in the workplace.
“The work...2024-10-2136 min
The Career EquationRethink Regret in Your Career Journey w/ the Career EquationIn a recent episode of the Career Equation Podcast, hosts Erica Sosna and Zoë Schofield explore the concept of career philosophy. They discuss its importance in today's ever-changing work landscape. They share their insights on various episodes in the podcast. They provide new insights into how people and organisations can rethink career planning. Their approach focuses on the evolving demands of the 21st century.
Erica Sosna is the creator of the Career Equation. She emphasises the core philosophy behind their approach. "A career is a series of choices where we explore how to align my gifts with h...2024-10-1425 min
The Career EquationCareer Coach Sarah Taylor Phillips on Careers as Random Set of ExperimentsIn the latest episode of The Career Equation podcast, host Erica Sosna sits down with Sarah Taylor Phillips. She is a seasoned career coach and recruitment consultant. Sarah's journey from a thriving corporate career to becoming a top career advisor is both inspiring and educational. With 20 years in talent acquisition, Sarah has seen the job market change firsthand.
"I realised that my true passion lay in helping others navigate their career paths," Sarah reflects. "The satisfaction of seeing someone transition into a role they love is unparalleled." Sarah transitioned from corporate recruiter to career coach to make...2024-10-0733 min
The Career EquationLaunching a Real Estate Business in Your 60'sIn the latest episode of the Career Equation Podcast, we sit down with Dominic Grace, a renowned figure in the real estate industry. With over 37 years at Savills, Dominic has recently embarked on a new journey. He has transitioned into property management consulting. This episode explores Dominic's experiences. It offers valuable insights into career change, work-life balance, and personal branding.
Is real estate a good career? Dominic sheds light on this by reflecting on his long and successful tenure at Savills. "I had a pretty long career at Savills, 37 years there," he recalls. During this time, he...2024-09-3032 min
The Career EquationAnnelies Kleyweg's Journey to Finding Her Perfect Dream Career using The Career EquationIn a recent podcast episode, Zoë Schofield sat down with Annelies Kleyweg. She is the owner and "gites executive officer" of Le Moulin de Clapier. It is a stunning mansion in the beautiful Dordogne area of France. Annelies decided to pursue her dream career. She left her corporate management and leadership roles. She pursued her dream of running a hospitality business. Now, she’s focused on this new venture in the French countryside.
Annelies's journey is a testament to the power of following one's passion and finding the right career equation. Her story begins with a holiday in...2024-09-2337 min
The Career EquationFrom A&E to Sports Medicine: A Junior Doctor's Journey in Shaping His Medical CareerIn today's episode of the Career Equation Podcast, host Erica Sosna sat down with Charles Hillman. He is a junior doctor working in A&E focusing on sports and rehabilitative medicine. Amid recent NHS strikes, Charlie provides a rare glimpse into emergency medicine today. He illuminates the realities of life on the medical frontlines. As he balances the pressures of the NHS with his aspirations in sports medicine, Charlie's experiences offer valuable insights into the evolving landscape of healthcare. His perspective reveals both the challenges and potential solutions within the healthcare system.
Charlie's journey into medicine began...2024-09-1435 min
The Career EquationWhat are the secrets to this podcasting pioneer's fulfilling career?In this episode of the Career Equation Podcast, host Erica Sosna sits down with Gilly Smith, a seasoned journalist, food writer, and podcasting pioneer. Gilly's illustrious career spans television, radio, and print, with a particular focus on the politics and culture of food. Her experience includes working on programs about malnutrition. It focuses on the impact of markets on food security in countries like the Philippines and Guatemala. Erica points out that Gilly's career is fueled by passion and curiosity, which is a key theme in their conversation
Gilly's journey into journalism begins with a deep-seated desire...2024-09-1436 min
The Career EquationWhat is the Career Equation and how it can help you build your dream career?Discover how to find your dream career path with The Career Equation Podcast. Learn how to achieve career success and work-life balance.
In the inaugural episode of The Career Equation Podcast, host Erica Sosna sits down with Zoë Schöfield. They introduce a groundbreaking approach to career navigation. Their approach aims to revolutionise how people think about career paths. With over 20 years of experience as a career coach, Erica and Zoë help people find their dream jobs. They focus on guiding individuals toward fulfilling careers. Their mission also includes helping others achieve a healthy work-life balance.
E...2024-09-1416 minThe Career EquationThe Career Equation - TrailerYou’re about to uncover the transformative formula for organizational and career success! Join hosts Erica Sosna and Zoë Schofield on the ”Career Equation” podcast, brought to you by careermatters.today. Trusted by firms like Amazon and AXA, their unique Career Equation revolutionizes your approach to professional growth and fulfillment, offering invaluable career advice along the way. Discover how the Career Equation helps individuals navigate their career paths with precision and clarity, providing actionable tips and career advice in each episode. For executives, gain access to quick leadership tips and strategies to get the most out of your team, master...2024-09-1101 min