The Uncommon Career Podcast: Transformative Career Coaching & Job Search Strategies

The Uncommon Career Podcast: Transformative Career Coaching & Job Search Strategies

Navigate your career with The Uncommon Career Podcast. Designed for professionals seeking strategic career moves, this podcast is your compass to success. If you’re a mid-level professional, you’ll have the guidance you need at every phase of your career transition. Hosted by Patricia Ortega, a master’s educated Career Counselor and Transformational Coach, this podcast equips you with laser-focused strategies for your next move. Gain clarity on your career direction, craft a persuasive and influential brand, and harness a competitive edge that sets professionals apart. Patricia’s proven expertise in navigating career crossroads ensures you’re armed with the tools you need to thrive, and expert guests bring practical expertise and insider information. Topics include getting clarity on your career direction; crafting a career story; building career confidence; writing a targeted resume/LinkedIn profile and branding materials; interviewing; and handling negotiations – as well as career growth and advancement strategies. Tune in to The Uncommon Career Podcast for an exclusive look and expert how-to’s of successful career transition and advancement. More information at https://theuncommoncareer.com

Episodes

November 11, 2025 32 mins

 

In this episode, Julianna and Patricia delve into the sensations and realities of feeling stuck, especially in one's career. They discuss common signs and symptoms of this stuckness, including the physical and mental manifestations during coaching sessions. The conversation covers the impact of procrastination, the power of coaching, and the importance of finding the right coach for your needs. Practical advice is offered on iden...

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In this episode, Patricia shares valuable advice on job searching, focusing on the importance of clarity, creating effective resumes, and writing authentic cover letters. The episode emphasizes learning from recent job seekers' experiences, the necessity of slowing down the application process to refine materials, and the significance of aligning resumes and cover letters with employer needs. Key highlights include avoiding 'chao...

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In this episode, join career coaches Janine and Patricia have an insightful coffee chat about their personal journeys of leaving law and tenure to embrace new careers. They share the importance of redefining success, the challenges faced during transitions, and the strategies they've learned.

The conversation touches on entrepreneurship, mindset, and the unexpected growth that comes with making a significant career change. 

 

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    In this episode, focus on the importance of networking in the job search process. Patricia shares insights about the inefficacy of submitting blind application as well as the debunked misconceptions about cold outreach. Lastly, learn how to begin managing hesitation and over-analysis, and the need to approach networking with a genuine connection rather than sales tactics. 

     

    We'll Talk About:
    • 00:31 The Pitfalls of Blind App...

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    In this episode, Patricia highlights common resume mistakes made by mid-level professionals, emphasizing the importance of measuring value over word count. Learn keys in transforming detailed job descriptions into value-packed stories that delineate specific outcomes and impacts. Lastly, learn how to translate and focus on results rather than tasks while using quantifiable proof and ensuring every word on the resume is purposeful...

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    In this episode, dive into the topic of assertiveness in communication. Highlight the importance of asserting oneself in both personal and professional settings without coming off as aggressive. Explore how individuals can overcome internal barriers and effectively communicate their boundaries and opinions. And lastly, gain insights into reframing their perspectives, using positive language, and building self-confidence to enhanc...

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    In this episode, tune in for the importance of negotiating your salary and recognizing your value in the workplace. Guest Candyce Hunt shares her own experiences and introduces the VALUE framework (Value documentation, Assert clear boundaries, Loudly communicate, Unapologetically ask, and Evidence) to help you secure the pay you deserve.

    Included are key signs to identify if you're undervaluing yourself, as well as practical ste...

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    In this special episode, Patricia shares deeply personal insights into her faith journey, discussing the impact of prayer during tough times and how a leap of faith profoundly transformed her career. Addressing recent global and local tragedies, this segment aims to offer comfort and perspective through a spiritual lens.

    Tune in further for a replay of a popular discussion on overcoming job interview nerves and mistakes.

     

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    Unsure whether or not you're actually being seen at work? In this episode, learn how to recognize when your boss is not advocating for your growth and what steps you can take to advocate for yourself. Highlight the importance of being clear on your career goals, communicating expectations with your boss, and using persuasive communication and marketing principles to make your achievements visible. Also emphasized here is the impo...

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    In this episode, discuss how to pursue career growth without damaging professional relationships. Learn strategies for transitioning between roles while maintaining healthy connections, and understand the importance of focusing on people rather than the organization. Tune in further to cover key principles such as expressing your intent to stay in touch, scheduling follow-ups, and providing value through strategic preparation.

     

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    Ever thought of mastering your career growth?

    In this episode featuring Bryttani Graddick, learn strategies for becoming irreplaceable in your career amid the challenges posed by AI and globalization. Tune in to uncover her flywheel system comprising education, experience, engagement, and excellence, designed to help HR professionals and other career-focused individuals achieve sustained career growth. And lastly, know how to re...

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    In this episode, consider the importance establishing a solid foundation before diving into a job search, especially for mid to senior-level professionals. Key elements are presented, such as gaining clarity on your target role and developing a unique brand. Learn the pitfalls of outdated job search methods and highlight the need for networking and relationship building. Additionally, dive into insights for avoiding over-optimiza...

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    You got the job you always wanted—so why, to some degree, do you feel unhappy?

    In this episode, explore reasons behind this shift including interpersonal challenges, unmet expectations, and changes in job scope or management. Gain insights on whether to stay in the current role or seek a new position, emphasizing personal growth and self-coaching as strategies to overcome perceived challenges.

    Lastly, tune in for advice on addres...

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    In this episode, explore the concept of cognitive dissonance and its impact on decision-making and motivation. Understand how conflicting beliefs, values, and actions can lead to mental discomfort, procrastination, and inaction.

    Learn why our brains often opt for the path of least resistance, and discover strategies for intentionally aligning actions with decisions to overcome internal conflicts.  

     

    We'll Talk About:
    • 00:52...

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    In this episode, founder and CEO of Mac's List, Mac Prichard, joins the show to discuss the importance of networking for career advancement. He emphasizes that job seekers should always maintain a strong professional network, even while employed, due to the likelihood of changing jobs several times throughout their careers.

    Learn about the hidden job market, and how many positions are filled through referrals rather than job boa...

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    Explore the intricate link between work and personal identity in this segment, emphasizing how losing or changing a job can impact one's sense of self. Learn practical activities and reminders to help separate your identity from your job roles, equipping you with the confidence and tools needed to navigate job transitions.

    Tune further to learn how to properly reflect on personal growth moments and internal validation, as well as...

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    July 22, 2025 32 mins

     

    Struggling with leading with heart? Explore how leaders can maintain authority while leading with empathy in this episode. Learn the importance of striking a balance between being empathetic and making logical business decisions.

    Key topics include understanding the emotional impact of business decisions, the role of trust and transparency, and practical strategies to incorporate empathy without compromising authority. Tune in fu...

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    This happens to every professional, but now's the time you can learn to overcome the career comparison trap. In this episode, learn the common pitfalls of comparison during a job search and discover practical advice on how to turn this potentially demoralizing habit into a source of motivation.

    Understand here that comparison is a natural brain process, but one that needs to be managed intentionally. Three common scenarios are li...

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    In this episode, learn the intricacies of the Hogan Assessment and its use in the hiring and selection process with guest Porschia Parker Griffin. Explore how it assesses personality, development aspects, and values, making it a vital tool used by 75% of Fortune 500 companies. Discover tips on preparing for the assessment, and emphasizing the importance of aligning personal and organizational values.

     

    Timestamps
    • 00:42 Wha...

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    In this episode, explore how to view job rejection and ghosting as opportunities rather than setbacks. Learn and emphasize the importance of seeing rejections as valuable data points and potential starting points for new professional relationships.

    Process depersonalizing rejection, leveraging faith and emotional tools like the Kubler-Ross grief cycle, recognizing and interrupting negative thought spirals, and celebrating micro w...

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