Show Notes
The way we work is changing—and it’s not going back. In this episode, we sit down with Brea Starmer, founder and CEO of Lions & Tigers, to break down the rise of blended teams, where full-time employees work alongside independent experts. They explore why women are leaving rigid career structures, how AI is widening skills gaps, and what companies must do to build flexible, high-performing teams for the future of work. You’ll learn: Why blended teams are becoming the new standard How flexible work can still support growth and stability What leaders need to rethink in the AI era
Show Notes Weekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQW
Guest Resources: Lions & Tigers website: https://lionsandtigers.com/ Workforce Reimagined Research: https://lionsandtigers.com/why-now/
Career Contessa Resources Book 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/ Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/ Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/
Sponsors Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial today at shopify.com/careercontessa. Open a Found account for FREE at found.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
More from Career Contessa
Think you need more discipline to reach your goals? Jia Jiang, bestselling author of Rejection Proof and Easy Discipline, explains why relying on willpower and working harder often backfires—and what to do instead. You’ll learn: Why traditional discipline doesn’t work for most people How enjoyment can make ambitious goals easier to sustain How to redesign your habits so progress requires less willpower
A bad manager can undermine your confidence, hurt your performance, and even derail your career. But what if quitting isn’t an option? Career coach and author Cathy Alfandre shares how to recognize a damaging manager, protect yourself while you stay, and create a strategic exit plan. Plus, learn how to spot red flags during the interview process so you don’t end up with another bad boss. You’ll learn: How to tell the difference between a demanding manager and a damaging one How to protect your confidence and career when you can’t quit How to spot manager red flags before accepting your next job
Why do so many successful women still feel like they're falling behind—even after achieving the career milestones they once dreamed of? Executive coach and former Google leader Brooke Taylor explains the hidden "Success Wound" that keeps high achievers chasing the next accomplishment without ever feeling like it's enough. Learn how to break free from the cycle of burnout, perfectionism, and self-doubt while pursuing ambition that actually feels fulfilling. You'll learn: Why burnout, perfectionism, and imposter syndrome may be symptoms—not the real problem. The five types of "Unfulfilled Achievers" and how to identify your own patterns. How to cultivate "aligned ambition" so you can pursue big goals without tying your self-worth to your achievements.
Landing a job in today's market takes more than submitting applications and hoping for the best. Recruiter, career coach, and content creator Emily Durham ("Emily the Recruiter") shares what hiring managers are actually looking for in 2026, the biggest mistakes candidates make, and the practical strategies that lead to more interviews and better offers. If you're job searching, considering a career pivot, or simply want to stay competitive, this episode is packed with actionable advice. You'll learn: What recruiters actually look for first on your resume, LinkedIn profile, and application. How to network, interview, and negotiate salary with confidence in today's hiring market. The three actions to take this week if you want to land a new job within the next 90 days.
Feeling the pressure to make a big career move before the year ends? You're not alone. In this episode, licensed clinical psychologist Anne Josephson explains why ambitious professionals often mistake burnout for clarity during the "Fall Crunch"—and shares practical, evidence-based strategies to manage anxiety, quiet overthinking, and make career decisions with confidence instead of urgency. You'll learn: How to tell the difference between burnout-driven impulsivity and a genuine desire for career change. Why tying your self-worth to productivity fuels anxiety—and how to break the cycle. Practical CBT and DBT techniques to reduce overwhelm, improve focus, and feel more grounded during high-pressure seasons.