Office Hours

Did you know you can negotiate for your first job? Nuwan Samaraweera, the Chief Operating Officer at P33, shares some intriguing tips on advocating for ourselves through our professional careers. He discusses everything from his realization of the value of building social capital to his journey of securing a work visa to stay in the United States. He also dives deeper into his key message of the importance of connecting with others and how to courteously leverage your network for everyone’s benefit. Tune in to hear Nuwan’s unique story and get tips that will help you in your...

David Hornick, Founding Partner at Lobby Capital, has built a career defined by genuine relationships, long-term curiosity, and staying useful in every stage of work. In this episode, Dave talks through how to approach work when you’re early in your career and still figuring it all out. He shares how small points of connection, consistent curiosity, and helping others can open unexpected doors—and why none of those things require a title or a resume.

From showing up to a professor’s office in college, to asking the right question in a boardroom, to turning a mome...

Have you ever thought about how important it is to have fun in college? Marc Sternberg, co-founder and managing director of A Street Capital, reminds us about the human need to have fun! He reorients us to focus on our “humanity”, shares his mindset on what impact investors should look for, and imparts his wisdom from being a “policy entrepreneur” in the Big Apple. Check out what else Marc can teach you!

Have you ever wondered how your career decisions can influence your future success? Sahir Azam, the former Chief Product Officer at MongoDB and a Partner at Index Ventures, shares his unique career journey, starting from pre-sales engineering to leading product development at a globally recognized tech company. In this episode, Sahir highlights the importance of cross-functional roles in understanding both technology and customer needs. He also discusses how his experience in pre-sales engineering helped him develop skills that contributed to his career growth and leadership. Join us as Sahir takes us through how his early career decisions shaped his...

One of the most valuable steps in any career journey is connecting with mentors, but for many young professionals, it can be difficult to identify who is the right mentor, in any given period of time, for you.

(Matt Kozlov) The Managing Director of Techstars LA, Techstars' LA-based accelerator program, has extensive experience being both a mentor and a mentee throughout his career. He is a believer in learning not only from senior executives in your field, but also from younger professionals throughout a multitude of industries. Today, we get a look into his advice for young...

Have you ever felt unsure about your career path or wondered how to make the most of new opportunities? Luckily, Meghan Frank, CFO of Lululemon, has a fresh perspective. She shares her journey of curiosity and adaptability, offering advice on navigating imposter syndrome and building a versatile skill set. We dive into the evolving retail industry, discuss leadership styles, and uncover what makes Lululemon’s culture unique. Tune in to hear her insights on embracing growth, asking the right questions, and finding success through learning and exploration.

Technology is at the heart of business transformation, and Michael Friedlander’s career is a testament to how IT strategy can shape the future of multinational organizations. As the former Senior Director of IT Strategy and Transformation at PepsiCo, and the current CIO of The Magnum Ice Cream Company, Michael has worked on major mergers and acquisitions, enhanced ERP capabilities, and led digital initiatives to modernize go-to-market strategies. With an MBA in Information Systems from Pace University, he understands firsthand the importance of bridging the gap between technology and business outcomes.

Leadership isn’t just about chasing titles or climbing the corporate ladder. Instead, it’s defined by how you show up for others and lead with empathy. Theresa Shea, the EVP - General Counsel and Corporate Secretary at Utz Brands, learned to blend multiple skillsets to become an effective leader. Impactful leaders are those who listen, adapt, and lift others as they rise. Whether it's through emotional intelligence or mentorship, real leadership is rooted in humanity, not hierarchy, and how you get there makes all the difference.

Building a career in retail leadership takes more than just showing up. Kristin Witt, an executive leader at General Mills, shares how important it is to develop communication skills, stay curious about how the business works, and focus on building strong relationships. Drawing from her early experiences and broad career journey, Kristin explains what helped her grow and how students and young professionals can set themselves up for success. 

Have you ever felt like you’ve outgrown the path you’re on? Luis Morejon, Head of Global Workplace Operations at Uber, shares what it really takes to reinvent yourself, again and again. From aerospace to construction to tech, Luis has rebuilt his career by letting go of past identities, learning from scratch, and committing fully to change. In this conversation, he reflects on the emotional weight of career pivots, the power of starting over, and why growth often begins with walking away. Tune in to hear how reinvention isn’t a risk, it’s a strategy. We also talk abo...

What if the biggest risk is playing it too safe? Howard Friedman, CEO of Utz Brands, shares how saying "yes" to hard jobs and uncertain paths accelerated his growth. He explains why your early career is the best time to take chances and how doing difficult things builds the confidence and skills that set you apart. From learning through adversity to making yourself indispensable, Howard breaks down how to take bold steps without being too reckless. This conversation is a playbook for turning risk into opportunity, especially early in your career.

Have you ever wondered how stepping outside your comfort zone can open doors you never imagined? Laura Harshberger, the Global Information Technology Director at PPG, shares how going beyond her job description helped her develop transferable skills and build a strong professional network. From joining a nonprofit board to continuing to tune in to news and upskill, Laura demonstrates the power of seizing opportunities to grow personally and professionally. Join us to hear her inspiring journey and learn how taking intentional steps can help you stand out in today’s competitive job market!

There’s no single roadmap to building a great career—just ask Miranda Nash. She’s the former SVP of Product Management at Oracle, but her path wasn’t exactly a straight line. Miranda started in engineering, explored the startup scene, left Oracle for a while, then came back and kept growing. Her story is a great reminder that it’s okay (and even smart) to pivot, try new things, and follow what excites you. What really stands out is how she’s built her career not just on skills, but on staying curious, doing great work, and building strong relat...

Have you ever wondered if a winding, unconventional path could still lead to success? Art Klein, the Executive Director of Digital Content and AI products at Kaiser Permanente, proves that it can. From mechanical engineering to finance, from IT operations to AI strategy, Art’s journey is a masterclass in following curiosity, embracing discomfort, and evolving through every phase of your career. In this interview, he reflects on the value of diverse early experiences, the power of listening, and why it’s okay not to have it all figured out. He shares how experimenting across roles helped him uncover his...

Knowing how to think on your feet and staying open to change beats having a perfect plan every time on the road to success. Andy Biladeau, the Chief Transformation Officer at SHRM, emphasizes that your destiny isn’t determined by your qualifications on paper. Instead, your ability to navigate unexpected situations through communication and coachability are what help you get there. In a world that’s shifting faster than we can even keep up with, the most important traits to develop are those that help you adapt to these changes.

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Do you wonder if you can pursue your own interests in the corporate world? Have you ever worried that your successes are only going to count if they involve titles and money? Kevin Ban, who was the Executive Vice President and Global Chief Medical Officer at Walgreens, is here to tell you that knowledge and relationships are more valuable in the long-run, and help you make a difference in the world of business. He speaks from experience as a physician who transitioned from academia to the corporate world, and how it taught him the importance of listening, understanding problems...

While preparing for the professional workplace, there can be immense outside pressure to take a traditional and well-trodden career path. Join us with Emily Nordquist, the former Director of Early Stage Membership at 1871, as she dives into her experience pursuing her passion in a newly budding field, social impact, and why it is okay to walk a less trodden career path.

Interviewer: (Brett Hummel)

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Should you be taking that job while you're studying in college? More importantly, how can you balance studying and working at the same time? While it can be difficult to balance school and work, doing so can allow you to gain early career experience and learn important skills utilized throughout your career journey, it can also teach life skills in prioritizing and managing time, two necessary skills for striking a healthy work-life balance. Join us with Jasmine Hoffman, the Vice President of Strategy & Operations at TechUnited, as she speaks about the invaluable skills in crisis, priority, and time management...

It can be scary to realize careers aren’t predictable. But, discovering them is part of the journey. Dane Bamburry, the Senior Director of Enterprise Architecture at Cox Enterprises, says that being curious and saying yes to new experiences helps you unlock different paths. By trading expectations for exploration, learning how communication shapes baths, and understanding the value of mentorship and storytelling, you’ll find yourself in the unexpected.

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Success in HR, or any career, comes down to knowing your value, building relationships, and always staying open to feedback. Natalie Rothman, the former Chief Human Resources Officer of Inspire Brands, reflects on how she’s navigated three decades in the people business with a mix of self-awareness, curiosity, and generosity. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to grow, her advice is a masterclass in what it means to thrive in today’s workforce.

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Have you ever thought a military leader and business executive would be DJ’ing in their spare time? In this episode, West Point graduate and Cummings’ Chief Information Officer, Earl Newsome, shares his journey from a tech-oriented teen to an executive leader and how his love for music has helped him along the way. We dive into how military leaders and DJs strive to gain followers and move the crowd in a similar fashion - fostering a sense of belonging between the individuals, which allows freedom to dance and work as your best self. Join us as we explore how...

Sometimes, you grow into passion by simply saying yes to the opportunities right in front of you. Pascual Alvarez, the Managing Director of Customer Care at American Airlines, says that exploration, persistence, and curiosity are the tools that help you unlock the path you are meant to be on. We often feel pressure to feel a ‘click’ or know that something’s right, but can you ever be certain until you actually try? That’s why it’s important to stay open, stay resilient, and let your path take shape as you do.

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What is one thing students should do more of in the first six months of their first internship or job? According to Kristen Collins, the Director of Global Purchasing Operations and Technology at Autodesk, the answer is to be curious and ask questions about the why. Kristen shares that the value of having a new addition to the team is that they bring a fresh perspective, so you should never be afraid to challenge the status quo. Join us for a discussion about what it’s like to become a manager early in your career, learn how to set yo...

Building a career at the intersection of research, innovation, and business impact takes more than just following the rules. It takes curiosity, adaptability, and the confidence to ask better questions. Monica Dreger, the Global Head of Research and Innovation at Airbnb, shares how her background in psychology shaped her approach to insights and leadership, and how asking the right questions has helped her drive transformation at companies like Mattel, Unilever, and Airbnb. From navigating tough conversations to landing your first 90 seconds, Monica offers practical advice for anyone looking to build a meaningful career rooted in curiosity and impact.

Faris Matalka, the Managing Director at Charles Schwab, unpacks his journey from his multicultural upbringing to his extensive experience in finance and managing critical strategies in this insightful interview. With a keen understanding of trading's complexities, he shares valuable insights about adaptability, strategic planning, and fostering a robust, flexible team for success.

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What does it take to rise through the ranks in engineering and operations? Nate Manning, the former President, Americas, of Johnson Controls, shares his journey from engineering to leading global teams at major companies like GE and Johnson Controls. He emphasizes the power of strategic networking, the importance of mentorship, and the need for ongoing personal development. Nate’s story shows how building strong relationships, taking risks, and continually learning can open doors to unexpected opportunities and accelerate your career. Whether you’re in school or just starting out, his insights will guide you toward long-term success.

Success in technology isn’t just about knowing how things work, it’s about knowing why they matter and how to communicate this in business. Shelia Anderson, the former Executive Vice President and Chief Information Officer at Aflac, says that learning how to translate skills into real-world outcomes, connecting technical expertise with business strategy, and adaptability are what truly set individuals apart in the competitive worlds of business and technology. With change happening around us even faster than we can comprehend, we can stay one step ahead by thinking outside the box.

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Stepping out of your comfort zone and gaining international experience could be a key to long-term growth and success in your career. In this insightful interview, Michael Glover, Chief Financial Officer of IHG, highlights the transformative impact of living and working around the world, from China to the UK and Brazil. Learn how broadening your base of experience significantly enhances your capabilities. He delves into the value of diverse roles and advises against a rushed career ascent. Don't miss Michael's emphasis on the marathon approach, encouraging individuals to understand their long-term goals and strategically accumulate varied experiences to ensure...

We’re often told to play it safe—but what if safety is the thing holding us back? 
 In a world where big tech feels like the default path, Vanessa Larco challenges the idea that stability is the ultimate goal. From building her foundation at Microsoft to launching startups and now investing in the next generation of founders as a Former Partner at NEA, Vanessa’s career proves that embracing uncertainty can unlock outsized growth.

In this episode, we unpack how to leverage your strengths, take smart risks, and turn experience into opportunity—whether you’re curious abou...

Ever wondered what people mean when they say they have fun at their job? Turns out, Nick Studer, CEO of Oliver Wyman, believes this isn’t just a bonus—it’s the key to long-term career success. In this episode, he shares why enjoying your work isn’t just about passion, but about finding an environment that challenges you, pushes you to grow, and surrounds you with people who make the journey exciting. From his own unconventional path to leadership to the advice he gives young professionals, Nick breaks down why success isn’t about a rigid plan, it’s about reco...

There are so many different components in growing throughout your career. Whether it’s growing your relationships and network, your own individual skills, or your position in a company, personal growth is at the core of any type of career development. So how do you take advantage of these opportunities to grow? Colleen Kozak, the Chief Transformation Officer at Dynatrace, is here to tell you that pushing yourself outside your comfort zone, continuously fostering connections, and focusing on skills outside of technical ones, such as leadership and communication are the keys to benefiting from your experiences. Learn how to re...

What should you really focus on in college to best prepare yourself for success? Why is empathy a need-to-have skill in the modern workforce? And what things do we need to do to be successful as mentees? Doron Bar-Caspi, the Group VP of Cloud Engineering Services at Oracle, shares advice on the importance of building soft skills, best questions to ask in your next interview, and why understanding the customer or client is a critical soft skill. Tune in to hear how he built highly-effective teams, what he looks for in young talent, and so much more.

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Being open-minded, inquisitive, and focused on your individual career path are three things that helped Bessemer Venture Partners' Aleeza Hashmi become one of the top VC investors. In this interview, Aleeza shares her advice about switching majors in college, working at differently-sized companies, the value of a pre-MBA internship, and getting your foot in the door with VC's by building early networks.

Beginning her career journey in a time when technology was on the cusp of reshaping retail, Angie explored the early stages of digital innovation and quickly recognized the opportunity in this changing landscape. Her trajectory from the start of the first e-commerce solutions to Senior Vice President of Technology at Home Depot reflects a dedication to seizing tech's potential. In this episode, she shares guidance on career paths, adaptability, and collaborative work, inspiring professionals to navigate an ever-evolving tech industry.

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Opening your mind to a variety of career paths is no easy task in college. The reality, though, is that most professionals work outside of their degree. Having a lifelong interest in learning can open up doors you never thought you’d even consider. Rick Segal, the founder and former CEO of Rethink Capital, has used this knowledge to find immense success in a field that was foreign to him and he shares how you can use those same principles in your own career.

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Concepts of energy, fulfillment, intentionality, or consciousness are rarely discussed in terms of career and work. However, Matt McCall, founder of Forge Capital, goes into some incredible depth on just how related the ideas are. Becoming the most energized you can be through combinations of passion, intention, and purpose can change your career from a job to a lifestyle.

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Being dedicated, curious, and thoughtful are three things that helped Microsoft's Hina Patel become one of the top leaders in the industry. And she's absolutely packed with knowledge about both the art and science of selling which she shares with us in this episode. In this interview, Hina also shares her advice about building a value-focused, quality network, the importance of mentorship throughout your career, and having both the curiosity and courage to take risks in your career.

You can’t do it all by yourself. As exciting as it is to dive headfirst into the corporate world, being conscious of the fact that others have valuable experience and perspectives that you don’t yet have is crucial in the learning and growth journey. So, how do you reach out and benefit from your personal and professional relationships? Russ Wilson, the Head of Product Experience at Splunk, is here to tell you that being open-minded to feedback, actively seeking opportunities to learn from others, and observing others are the keys to succeeding by not getting stuck in your...

It can be easy to feel as if you are trapped to solely do work related to your major as you graduate college and enter the workforce. If that were the case though, then our guest Tatiana Shalalvand likely wouldn't be where she is now working as the Investment Director at Kinnevick. Though her background in communications is unique for the venture capital space, it has afforded her with the ability to provide a distinct perspective from day to day. In this interview Tatiana talks about different leadership styles, gives some great career advice, and even has a few...

Landing your first job — and figuring out where it can lead — can feel overwhelming. That’s exactly why Office Hours exists.

In this episode, we’re joined by David Zinsner, Chief Financial Officer at Intel, who shares the unexpected decisions, risks, and mindset shifts that shaped his career — including becoming a CFO at just 36 years old.

From betting on an underdog spin-off when everyone told him not to, to realizing that staying open-minded sometimes means coming back to what you’re best at, David breaks down what actually accelerates growth early in your career. He also shares...