In this episode we’re exploring the transformative journey of graphic designer turned UX professional, Justin Campbell. Justin, a Purdue University alum, opens up about his evolution in the field of user experience and how a conversation with me sparked a new trajectory in his career, revealing the versatile nature of skills and the importance of long-term thinking in making career moves.

Justin shares his invaluable insights on the agile transformation of UX design, the essence of design thinking in problem-solving, and the role of collaborative workshops in innovation. As we navigate the concepts of organizational maturity and aligning business goals with user needs, Justin emphasizes the significance of understanding stakeholder requirements and conducting tailored user research, especially in diverse sectors dealing with climate change and agriculture.

Justin's commitment to improving our communities shines through his current work on road safety and city planning, along with his innovative approach to using software for socially impactful projects like housing the homeless. He stresses the importance of mentorship, connecting with industry experts, and the powerful influence of mindset work on career development.

As we debunk the myths of remote work and explore Justin's transition during the pandemic, he highlights how adopting a proactive mindset is essential, advising listeners to lean on thought leaders like myself to make strides in the remote landscape.

Justin Campbell was a passionate design student back in his college days at Purdue University, where he explored the fundamentals of his craft. It wasn't until a pivotal conversation opened his eyes that Justin discovered a lingering fascination with user experience design. Unaware of the field's potential when he first started, he primarily focused on the joy of applying his skills and relishing in the creative process. This initial interest in design laid a steadfast foundation for his expertise. As his career progressed, Justin's horizon expanded, revealing the striking realization that nearly 80% of his established skills effortlessly translated into the burgeoning world of UX. Now, Justin Campbell stands as a professional with a versatile toolkit, merging his love for design with the intricate art of crafting excellent user experiences.

00:00 Podcast interviews successful career transition to remote work.

06:40 Identified differences and made changes to accommodate.

09:16 Stakeholder feedback on user needs and research.

11:20 Worked with government and private companies, initiatives.

16:53 Larger sample size, unmoderated, and qualitative analysis.

19:45 Nielsen Norman Group research shows UX scale.

22:40 Seek to be change-oriented, help organizations improve.

26:07 Local farmers collaborate, distrust large national growers.

29:19 City traffic optimization, reducing depth through engineering.

32:13 Using lean UX integrates development and design.

35:49 Developers collaborate to reduce documentation and knowledge transfer.

38:37 Whiteboarding tools are less important than team ability.

43:21 Mindset and determination lead to successful remote work.

44:53 Belief in possibilities shapes the subconscious for success.

47:23 Understanding business language, trusting experts facilitates partnership.

50:47 Seek mentors in UX through resources like ADP List.

Today we're diving into the transformative world of procurement with Tunji, a procurement executive who has navigated the terrains of traditional and remote workspaces. Tunji brings to the table a wealth of experience as a problem solver and strategic leader, helping us understand how procurement is shifting from a transactional function to one that provides a competitive edge to businesses.

In our conversation, Tunji will shed light on how procurement impacts revenue and profitability through speed, cost savings, and inventory management, and the pivotal role technology plays in revolutionizing these processes. Expect to gain insight into digital tools such as ERPs, artificial intelligence, and blockchain, and how these innovations are redefining sourcing, negotiations, and supply chain transparency.

Tunji is also a firm believer in the power of mentorship and will discuss how coaching has sculpted his approach to the delicate balance of speed, cost, and risk. He'll share his views on the must-have KPIs, the importance of professionalism and communication, and the significance of quick wins in driving change.

Get ready to explore the challenges and opportunities of leading remote procurement teams, the art of cultivating strategic supplier relationships, and the blend of analytical and human-facing skills needed in the modern procurement landscape.

Tunji's professional journey mirrors the transformative tale of procurement itself, from a transactional function to a strategic cornerstone in organizational success. Tunji began his career at a time when the procurement sector was largely underestimated, perceived as a department focused mainly on operational activities without significant influence on the broader business strategy.

As the years advanced, Tunji witnessed and actively participated in this metamorphosis, embracing the increasing importance of procurement as a force for transformation and strategic influence within businesses. He became an advocate for the value procurement could deliver beyond just cost savings—recognizing its potential impact on revenue growth, profitability, and balance sheet strength.

Today, Tunji stands out as a seasoned professional who has not only witnessed but also contributed to the elevation of procurement from a back-office role to a key player in corporate strategy, often acting as a trusted advisor to the core business functions. Through his experience, foresight, and leadership, he has proven that procurement is indeed a critical element in achieving business objectives, driving transformation, and ensuring a company's competitive edge in a rapidly changing world.

00:00 Procurement's strategic role emerged due to COVID-19.

07:31 Organizations transforming procurement with strategic technology adoption.

15:18 Experience consulting prepared me for ambiguous situations.

17:58 Developed supermarket model for critical material replenishment.

25:31 Prioritize basics before adopting technology for efficiency.

27:57 Assessment in KPIs crucial for taking tasks seriously.

34:35 Resistance to relocation, emphasis on performance evaluation.

40:44 Online presence blurs personal and professional boundaries.

45:11 Prokemeneus needs to secure ingredients for production.

55:20 Seek experienced mentors for valuable guidance.

56:39 Coaching helped learn to evaluate quickly.

In this episode Karen sits down with Susan Byrne, director of headhunting at Hire Headhunter, and a beacon of wisdom in career coaching and counseling.

Today, we're unpacking the seismic shift towards remote opportunities and the multi-faceted approach needed for successful career transitions. Susan brings her personal journey from a blue-collar upbringing to the pinnacle of career strategy, shedding light on the critical need for long-term career planning, especially in a remote work context.

We discuss how candidates can navigate the job market with a flexible mindset about salary and how to use every conversation as a stepping stone towards success. We'll also dig into why aligning one's skills and goals with the market is paramount, and tackle the challenges faced when transitioning from entrepreneurship to being an employee.

Susan and I uncover the realities of executive career management, contrasting it with traditional recruiting, and we break down the drawbacks of standard outplacement services. Our conversation goes beyond just landing the next job but strategizes on future growth and trajectories, empowering you, the listeners, to not just adapt but thrive in the evolving job market.

In this era of remote work, we highlight how crucial it is to refine your narrative and prep for interviews with the diligence of an athlete training for the Olympics. From verbal articulation to the nuances of video interview setups, Susan and I leave no stone unturned, offering you actionable advice to launch you confidently into your next career chapter.

Born and raised in the hardworking blue-collar environment of Southeast Detroit, Susan Byrne's early life was framed by the fervent labor of her parents. Her father dedicated countless hours in a demanding job, enduring physical tolls to ensure the family's financial stability, while her mother juggled the full weight of caregiving and maintaining the household. Despite the lack of emphasis on higher education in her community, Susan harbored a tenacious dream to break the mold.

Determined to transcend the expectations set by her public school upbringing, Susan became a beacon of ambition. She held onto the conviction that a successful career and college education were not just fantasies, but achievable realities. Driven by the example set by her parents' relentless work ethic, Susan committed herself to chart a course that would lead her towards her professional aspirations.

00:00 Today's show features headhunting director and coaching.

04:01 Remote native requires higher paying, skilled roles.

06:40 Transitioning to remote work may mean career change, confidence and interview preparation are crucial.

12:34 Adjust lighting, positioning, and camera focus for interviews.

13:14 Deeper dive into behavioral interview process. Practice, revise, articulate, mock interviews.

18:16 Emphasizing the need for thorough data collection.

22:09 Job market: good demand, uncertain supply, cycle.

22:55 Client age impacts financial planning and strategies.

27:07 Discussing issues around executive career management and scams.

31:31 Investment in coaching and consulting is crucial.

33:58 Vetting process ensures successful client campaigns.

37:36 Entrepreneurs stick to scaling income, not jobs.

In this episode, Aaron Einhorn takes us on a journey through the rigorous FDA drug approval process, discussing two potential game-changers—one gearing up for Phase 2 trials and another on the cusp of Phase 3. We'll explore the intricate dance of strategizing for approval while keeping patient benefits at the forefront.

But it’s not all test tubes and trials; Aaron shares his personal trajectory from a hands-on role in gene regulation therapy and antibody development to his current remote-driven position in regulatory affairs at Resolute Bio. His experience is rich—spanning academia at Loyola University Health Center and further learning at Northwestern University before diving into the biotech startup scene.

As we navigate the complexities of Aaron's day-to-day, he unfolds the intricacies of orchestrating communication across departments and demystifies the role of contract research organizations (CROs) in our current landscape. Moreover, we uncover how remote work tools, such as Teams, SharePoint, and the project management software Smartsheet, are the gears that keep the machinery of remote regulatory affairs running smoothly.

Our conversation also touches on the vital importance of leadership without borders, the nuances of managing timelines against the backdrop of lengthy drug trials, and the growth of remote opportunities in the pharmaceutical and biotech industry.

Aaron's commitment to professional development shines through as he preps for a certification test with the Regulatory Affairs Professional Society and gears up to network at the RAPS Convergence conference in Montreal.

Aaron Einhorn began his career journey in an academic research lab, where he delved into the complexities of handling clinical samples. With an aspiration to transition from academia to the bustling industry scene, Aaron knew that further education was his gateway. Pursuing this goal with determination, he earned his Master of Science in Biotechnology from Northwestern University, broadening his horizons and gaining proficiency in diverse aspects of biotechnology.

00:00 Clinical researcher successfully transitioned to remote work.

05:11 Interacting with various organizations for clinical work.

08:01 Using Office 365 suite, Teams, SharePoint, Smartsheet.

12:19 Not managing directly, but influencing team coordination.

16:22 Phase three trial evaluates safety and efficacy.

19:24 Nucleotide therapies evolved with mRNA vaccine development.

20:36 Regulatory work is great for science background.

27:08 Biotech and pharma funding increasing, remote work.

28:58 Joining RAPS for regulatory affairs certification preparation.

34:06 Seek remote work you're interested in, wisely.

37:06 Resolute values remote work but sees the value in in-person interactions.

38:20 Remote work has been great for me.

Get ready to dive deep into the world of remote work with our esteemed guest, Kara Deschenes—a trailblazer in HR who's found her stride in the remote native space. Kara's journey is anything but conventional; from earning her MBA to investment banking, then shaping young minds as a middle school teacher, she's taken a richly diverse path to becoming a leader in HR.

Here, we unravel Kara's story, exploring her passion for HR and its power to transform workplaces. She shares candidly about her experiences with workplace racism and the complexities of managing people through difficult transitions.

We'll also touch base on the nuances of remote HR versus traditional HR roles, as Kara imparts her wisdom on transitioning to the remote environment. Expect to hear about the importance of appearance in remote interviews and pick up some valuable tips for acing your virtual interactions.

Kara shares a slice from her fascinating career, shedding light on the successful projects that have positioned her as a force in her field, such as rolling out new benefits and introducing a new HR system driven by robust data.

And there's more—Kara talks about a move she pioneered—implementing well-being days to prioritize mental health, showcasing an enlightened approach to modern HR.

Whether you're a remote work veteran or you're contemplating a shift to a remote-first career, Kara's insights will enlighten and inspire.

Kara Deschenes' career journey is a testament to the unpredictable paths that often lead to a fulfilling role in human resources. With an MBA in hand, Kara initially entered the world of investment banking. It seemed like a logical step, poised to embark on a career amidst the financial elite. However, it wasn't long before Kara discovered a lack of passion for the cutthroat investment realm, leading to a pivotal career change.

In a bold move, Kara veered away from the corporate financial sector and embraced the world of education as a middle school teacher. It was in the classroom, among young, eager minds, that she found her true calling: nurturing growth and fostering development. Her time as an educator honed skills that would prove invaluable in HR—communication, empathy, and a deep understanding of individual and collective needs.

00:00 Passion for teaching led to staff development.

04:07 Turned HR department around, found new passion.

08:17 Challenge of liking people through difficulties and mistakes.

12:48 Invest in people for mutual success.

16:31 Candidate struggled to translate for-profit HR experience.

17:32 Understanding organization's goals drives HR strategic planning.

22:56 Staying connected with colleagues despite physical distance.

25:45 Successfully navigated benefits changes, saving $250k.

28:55 Proposing new system, and well-being days approved.

33:10 Remote work requires self-drive, motivation, and adaptability.

35:22 Easily finding candidates despite high demand.

40:17 Appearance matters in job interviews for success.

43:24 Practice being online to ease intimidation. Feedback helps.

45:30 Feeling relaxed leads to better video interviews.

In this episode we venture into the intricate world of remote work with our guest Mary McCahon. With a background steeped in journalism and TV, Mary shares her insightful transition to remote work, revealing the blend of challenges and rewards that come with it. Her evolution from in-person learning to embracing the digital sphere sheds light on the importance of maintaining connections and collaboration, even from a distance.

We discuss Mary's journey through different communication roles—from ground-level journalism to the high-stakes domain of crisis communication—and her emergence into analyst relations within the tech industry. Mary breaks down the nuances of building long-term, confidential relationships with analysts and illustrates the importance of storytelling, time management, and executive presence in a remote work setting.

As she offers a window into her past experiences with high-profile events and branded sponsorships, Mary underscores the significance of cutting through the noise and maintaining personal relationships in marketing and communications. Join us as we explore the value of face-to-face interactions, the art of influencing, and the power of structured communication.

Mary McCahon is a professional who embraced the evolving work landscape during the pandemic. Recognizing that a physical office was not a necessity for productivity and efficiency, Mary seized an opportunity to work remotely. This shift came just at the right time when the world was adapting to new ways of working.

Without corporate offices near her residence, Mary found a job that was 100% remote. She cherishes the flexibility that remote work offers, including the ability to travel and still maintain her professional commitments. Mary values the personal interactions with colleagues and clients during her travels but has also discovered the power of dedication and self-discipline in her day-to-day routine. At her computer, she demonstrates that one can be just as, if not more, productive than in a traditional office setting. Mary McCahon's story is one of adaptability, self-control, and the successful navigation of a modern remote working environment.

00:00 Expect monthly client interaction, including internal networking.

04:39 Travel is essential for career and growth.

09:34 Building long-lasting relationships with analysts yields results.

11:39 Traditional journalism transitioning to digital; TV declining.

15:20 Career journey in PR, communications, and management.

18:39 Preventing image damage through careful planning and communication.

21:28 Media communication: rules, authorized spokesperson, crisis management.

24:59 Research reports and consulting lead to recommendations.

30:51 Advising on learning from and coaching analysts.

31:57 Building trust, expertise, and leadership for career growth.

37:34 Transitioned from journalism to corporate to government.

41:08 Supporting education in Mexico, engaging people effectively.

43:41 In-person learning valuable, missed during work from home.

45:25 Strategic networking is essential for remote work.

48:41 Trust our process for consistent candidate results.

In this inspiring episode of Remote Native, host Karen Gurney sits down with Sebastian Olaya, a remarkable success story who transitioned from a marketing and communications background in Colombia to becoming a remote native in the United States. Sebastian shares his journey of overcoming challenges and achieving the American dream, highlighting the importance of repositioning skills for the American job market.

He discusses how he merged his marketing expertise with newer technical skills to thrive as a SaaS product manager, emphasizing the significance of continuous learning and adaptation. Sebastian also dives into his role as a thought leader, discussing how he mentors and imparts his knowledge to junior staff and aspiring product managers.

Tune in to discover how Sebastian's dedication, resilience, and strategic career moves not only transformed his professional trajectory but also led him to contribute to the industry and influence the next generation of remote professionals.

Sebastian Olaya was born and raised in Cali, Colombia to a single mother who worked tirelessly to provide him with an education. As the first generation graduate of his family, Sebastian knew he wanted to support his mother and give back to her for all her sacrifices. When the opportunity arose for him to come to the United States, he knew it was his chance to take care of both of them. Despite the challenges of blending into a new culture, Sebastian found strength in his Colombian roots and his strong work ethic, determined to succeed in his new home.

00:00 Sebastian Olayah's successful transition into SaaS.

05:54 College marketing focused on emotional connection, ROI.

08:04 Transition from middle management to leadership in marketing.

12:34 Product managers need emotional intelligence for collaboration.

15:52 Technology connects people, aids collaboration and iteration.

23:18 Instructor in product management boot camp remotely.

25:37 Job market guides, trust the process, success.

27:56 Excited about changing lives and achieving dreams.

Karen Gurney sits down with guest Jeffrey Horn to discuss his insightful journey through the job search process. Jeffrey sheds light on the pivotal moment when he reevaluated his job search strategy, leading to a significant shift in his career trajectory.

From repositioning his resume to navigating technical interviews and the challenges of securing remote work, Jeffrey shares valuable insights and practical tips. Join us as we explore the unique dynamics of job searching, the power of effective communication, and the resilience needed to achieve career goals.

Karen and Jeffrey's candid conversation explores the complexities of job fit, handling interview challenges, and the transformative impact of finding the right job. Whether you're a job seeker, a professional navigating remote work, or simply curious about the nuances of the job market, this episode is packed with wisdom and advice to inspire your own career journey.

Jeffrey Horn recently started a new role and is navigating the challenges of adjusting to a new team and environment. Despite feeling unsettled, he is excited to finally have the opportunity he longed for and is grateful to be in his new position.

00:00 Transitioning to a new programming language takes time.

06:54 Managing interviews like a full-time job.

10:38 Balancing act in job interviews: Coding challenges.

13:52 Live coding exercise improved code quality backed by tests.

15:26 Worry about technical screens in job interviews.

18:28 Preparing for system design interviews is challenging.

23:40 Better prepared leads to critical thinking ability.

25:55 Seeking support for job decision making process.

31:28 Remote work requires clear and frequent communication.

34:40 Unemployment, job satisfaction, and future career plans.

38:08 Seek experienced sources for job search advice.

40:56 Interview confusion leads to shifting work priorities.

43:02 Remote work offers diversity and opportunities.

46:56 Individuality in job search; need for support.

49:52 Customizing resumes for jobs - finding balance.

53:45 Critical eye improved job search strategy and tactics.

58:19 Close partnership, training for high value tasks.

59:00 Jeff wraps up achieving remote career goals.