The Career Diet Podcast
The Career Diet podcast is for ambitious professionals looking to create a career that supports your personal goals, growth and lifestyle – not one that requires you to sacrifice them! I'm your host, Anna Belyaeva, a LinkedIn Learning instructor and a world-recognized career coach, who has helped thousands of professionals discover and land their dream career. My mission is to help you see the power you hold in your career and help you become The Star Candidate every employer is searching for. Think of this podcast as a personal career strategist in your pocket and leave it to me to provide yo...
50: Why your job search isn’t clicking (Live Coaching Session, Part 1)
In this special episode I share a real live coaching session I held for a small group of senior professionals. You’ll hear real stories and sticking points - and how to work through them.
I break down the exact patterns I’m seeing from experienced professionals who are targeting $150K+ roles but approaching their job search in a way that keeps them invisible. We unpack why most outreach feels transactional and what actually needs to shift at this level.
Ready to build the skill set to be seen as a $1M hire and land $150K+ r...
49: From networking to VP offer: how Dyana created a $40K career leap in 4 months
You’re doing a lot of things right.
You’re networking. You’re building relationships. You’re getting interviews. But the offer still isn’t landing and you’re starting to second-guess yourself.
In this episode, Dyana shares what shifted when her job search strategies weren’t leading to the outcomes she wanted and how, after joining the program, she went from stuck and second guessing to signing a VP-level offer with a $40K+ salary increase, stock options, and a signing bonus.
Ready for a strategy that doesn’t rely on hope? Book a free call with...
48: FAQ: I try to network but no one is responding
You’re trying to network. You’re reaching out. You’re even finding the hiring manager.
But no one’s responding—and you’re wondering: What am I doing wrong?
One of the most common thing people tell me is:
“I’ve tried networking, and it’s not working.”
In this episode, we dig into what networking actually is, who you’re reaching out to, how to reach out, and how many messages it really takes to get traction.
Because if you’re sending 3-4 messages and hoping it lands, or pitching yours...
47: Job searching is selling
You’re great at what you do. You’ve worked with name-brand clients, maybe even held a big title at a company everyone knows.
And now that you’re job searching, you can’t help but think — How could they not give me the job? It’s a no-brainer!
In this episode, we talk about why having the experience isn’t the same as knowing how to build visibility and communicate your value in a way that gets you hired for a $150k+ role.
Because when you’re selling a high-value product — you — a polished resume is...
46: 3 big shifts to land a $200K offer in 1–4 months in 2026
You say you want a $200K offer… but are you showing up accordingly? Does your strategy - and input - match the level of your goal?
When you’re looking for $150K-$200K+ roles, you become a 7-figure investment for the employer in just a couple years. You’re not just job searching. When it comes to senior job search, you are closing a million-dollar project.
And if your job search looks like scrolling LinkedIn when you feel like it, applying on your phone, or hoping that interview pans out—it will be extremely hard for you...
45: Job search in 2026: it shouldn’t be this hard… Or should it?
“This should have worked.”
“I did everything.”
“Job search shouldn’t be this hard.”
“I shouldn’t have to do all this to land a job.”
If these thoughts sound familiar, this episode is for you.
I’m unpacking why these thoughts feel true—but quietly lead to frustration, collapse after rejection, and resentment toward the whole process. We’ll talk about why “I gave it my all” is often just scratching the surface—and why it’s not about trying harder, but trying differently.
Ready to regain control to land your next s...
44: Biggest job search challenges our senior clients faced in 2025 – and how we solved them
If you’ve been trying to land your next $150K+ senior offer this year but kept getting stuck—this episode is for you.
Anna breaks down the 4 biggest challenges our clients faced in their job search this year—from interviews that didn’t convert to networking that went nowhere—and exactly how we helped them solve those challenges in this new AI-driven competitive job market. If you're targeting senior roles in 2026, you’ll see the level of preparation the market now actually requires.
🎯 Ready to land your next $150K+ role with our proven system?
Apply for The...
43: How our client Daniel went from layoff to a senior title and 25% pay increase in 4 months
How does someone go from being laid off… to stepping into a senior role with a major pay bump in just a few months?
In this episode, Anna talks with Daniel to break down the shifts that transformed his job search—from rebuilding confidence after a layoff to approaching networking and interviews in a completely new way.
If you’re in a career transition or struggling to build traction, this conversation gives you a real behind-the-scenes look at what actually drives fast, meaningful results.
Ready for clarity on your own job search? Book a free...
42: FAQ: How do I find target companies?
Are you overwhelmed trying to figure out which companies you should actually be targeting? In this episode, I break down my framework to help you identify the right target companies—so you can stop panic-applying, stop wasting hours on roles that aren’t aligned, and finally start making traction in your job search.
Ready to land your dream $150k+ offer in 2-5 months? Don’t miss our free live event, the “150K+ Offers Job Search Sprint.” Only 50 spots available, apply here to grab yours now.
Follow The Career Diet on Instagram: @thecareerdiet
Connect with me on...
41: How to deal with job search rejection
Getting rejected during your job search? You’re not alone.
In this episode, we take an honest look at rejection and why it’s way more normal than you think. You’ll hear the three shifts that can help you handle setbacks in a healthier, more grounded way — so you can keep moving toward the roles you actually want.
Ready for higher-level roles? Don’t miss our free live event, the “150K+ Offers Job Search Sprint.” Only 50 spots available — grab yours now: thecareerdiet.com/the-unstuck-masterclass/
Follow The Career Diet on Instagram: @thecareerdiet
Connect with m...
40: Why your networking isn’t working (And what to do instead)
Are you sending messages, reaching out on LinkedIn, and “trying to network”… but nothing is happening?
No replies. No meetings. No momentum.
In this episode, we break down what’s actually going wrong in your networking and what to do instead.
You’ll learn how to:
• Stop sending messages that get ignored
• Book meetings with decision makers (consistently)
• Lead conversations that build real advocacy — not just a referral link
• Create a weekly networking routine that actually moves your job search forward
If you’re tired of “doing all...
39: When is the best time to job search? (It's not what you think)
When is the best time to job search?Should you pause your search in November and December?Is Q4 really the “dead months” for hiring?
In this episode, we unpack these questions and challenge some of the biggest assumptions around job search timing especially for high-achieving professionals who don’t want to waste another quarter feeling stuck.
If you’re tempted to wait until the new year, this episode is definitely for you.
Ready to take action to land your dream $150K+ offer in 2-3 months?
Join us for our live Job Search S...
38: How Swathi went from layoff to career pivot, 2 offers & a $25K raise
Are you feeling lost and alone in your job search after a layoff? In this episode, I sit down with my client, Swathi, who shares her incredible journey from the uncertainty of being laid off to the triumph of receiving two compelling job offers on the SAME day.Â
Swathi opens up about the initial lonely first month of job searching where her applications felt like they were disappearing into a "big black void." We dive deep into the crucial mindset shift that helped her pivot into a new function as a Product Marketing Manager—a role she did...
Job search strategy that took her from laid off to a $25K raise
Are you feeling lost and alone in your job search after a layoff? In this episode, I sit down with my client, Swathy, who shares her incredible journey from the uncertainty of being laid off to the triumph of receiving two compelling job offers on the SAME day.
Swathy opens up about the initial lonely first month of job searching where her applications felt like they were disappearing into a "big black void." We dive deep into the crucial mindset shift that helped her pivot into a new function as a Product Marketing Manager—a role she di...
37: AI's real impact on jobs with AI Data Science Director Alina Rivilis
Are you worried about AI's impact on your job? In this episode, we sit down with Alina Rivilis, a Director of Data Science and AI with over 25 years of experience, to uncover the real story behind AI's disruption of the corporate world.
Alina, a 2025 Women in AI Awards finalist, sheds light on how AI is impacting hiring at all levels and what employers are truly looking for in this new landscape. We discuss the decline of entry-level positions and what this means for new graduates.
If you're a mid to senior-level professional, this conversation is...
36: How to follow up with confidence without feeling pushy
What to do after an interview? Ever wondered why you never heard back after a great interview or networking message? It's the most common question job seekers ask. The answer is simple: people are just busy. A non-response is not a rejection.
This episode is your definitive guide to the art of the follow-up. Stop guessing and start implementing a strategy that shows you're the right person for the job.
In this episode, you'll learn:
âś… The single most important rule my coaching clients learn: always follow up.
âś… How to reframe following up a...
35: Doing a lot in your job search but still no offers?
Are you putting in countless hours in your job search, tailoring your resume, and scrolling through LinkedIn, only to feel like you're getting nowhere? If you set a goal to land your dream six-figure role in 2025 and it hasn't happened yet, this episode is the dose of tough love you need to hear.Â
We're more than halfway through the year, and it's time to get honest about what's really holding you back. It's not the market, it's not the economy—the biggest obstacle in your job search is likely you.
In this episode, you'll learn:
<...34: How to get actually hired for mid-senior roles in the era of AI
Are you an experienced professional struggling to land interviews despite a great resume? In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on why this is happening, how the hiring game has been changed by AI and what works today.
Relying on a tailored resume to get you interviews is like trying to close a $200,000 work deal by sending a PDF to a potential client. You wouldn't do that at work, so why do it for your own career? It's time to learn the new rules for getting hired.
Listen now to learn why your ol...
33: How I learned to network
In this episode, I'm not just telling you how to network; I'm showing you how I built this skill from the ground up and turned it into a six-figure career for myself.
I wasn't born a "people person." I was a shy introvert, speaking English as a second language, who dreaded networking events. Fast forward 15 years, and I was being headhunted for my ability to connect with high-level executives.
This episode is the story of that transformation. It's for anyone who feels stuck in their career and knows they need to network but doesn't know...
32: How you’re showing employers you’re not ready
Welcome back to The Career Diet Podcast!
If you’ve ever wondered, “Am I really ready for that $150K+ role?”—this episode is your wake-up call.
Because the way you’re showing up—your mindset, presence, and confidence—might be sending a message you don’t even realize: “I’m not ready.”
You’ve got the experience. You’ve led teams. You’re more than capable.
But if you’re hesitating to reach out, second-guessing every conversation, or waiting to “feel confident” once the offer comes—you’re keeping yourself stuck.
In this episode, I’m breaking dow...
31: You’re aiming for $150K+ roles with a $70K strategy
Welcome back to The Career Diet Podcast. If you’re aiming for a job that pays $150K, $180K, or even $200K+—but you’re stuck wondering why nothing’s working—this episode is for you.
You’ve got the experience. You’ve worked at big-name companies. You know you’re good at what you do. So why aren’t the interviews or offers coming your way?
Let me tell you: you’re not doing anything wrong. You’re just using a strategy that works for $60K–$70K roles—not for strategic, senior-level opportunities.
In this episode, I’m break...
30: Why employers say no: the objections you never hear
Welcome back to The Career Diet Podcast! If you’ve ever walked out of an interview feeling like you did everything “right” but still didn’t get the offer—this episode is for you.
Most candidates spend all their time prepping their answers—but they completely miss what’s actually blocking them from the offer: unspoken objections.
In this episode, I’m breaking down how to identify the doubts hiring managers have before they say them out loud—and how to address them with confidence and strategy.
What you’ll learn in this episode:
âś… Ho...
29: Why you are not converting interviews into offers - and how to fix it
In this episode of The Career Diet Podcast, we're diving deep into a common frustration: landing interviews but not getting the offer. If you’ve ever walked out of an interview thinking it went well—only to be met with silence—this one's for you. More often than not, the reason isn’t your skills or experience, but subtle mistakes in how you approach the interview. Today, I’m breaking down the three biggest interview mistakes that are keeping top candidates (like you!) from securing the job—and how to fix them.
What you’ll learn in this episode: ...
28: Confidence for job interviews
Welcome back to The Career Diet Podcast! If interviews have ever felt like high-pressure auditions where you’re being judged, it’s time to change your approach. Interviews aren’t about convincing someone to hire you—they’re about having a real conversation and deciding together if the fit is right.
In this episode, I’m sharing what most job seekers don’t realize about the interview process, how hiring managers are really thinking, and how to reclaim your confidence before you even walk in the door.
What you’ll learn in this episode:
âś… How to shif...
27: This isn't a "bad" job market - it's the new normal
Welcome back to The Career Diet Podcast! If you’ve been feeling like job searching is harder than ever, you’re not imagining things—but the key to success isn’t waiting for the market to change. It’s adapting to how hiring works today.
In this episode, we’re diving into the biggest shifts in hiring and, most importantly, the strategies that actually work to land great opportunities in today’s market.
What you’ll learn in this episode:
âś… How your mindset about the job market shapes your job search experience.
âś… The three bigg...
26: You need to become the CEO of your career
Welcome back to The Career Diet Podcast! If you’ve been approaching your career with an employee mindset—waiting, hoping, and reacting—this episode is going to change the way you think. The most successful professionals don’t just apply for jobs; they take ownership, build relationships, and make strategic moves that set them up for long-term success. Today, we’re diving into seven key mindset shifts that will help you step into the CEO role of your career and land high-impact, high-paying roles.
What you’ll learn in this episode:
âś… Why thinking long-term leads to bigger oppo...
25: Got rejected? Turn it into opportunity
In this episode of The Career Diet Podcast, we’re tackling one of the toughest parts of the job search: rejection. Whether it’s an automated rejection email or a final-round interview that didn’t go your way, setbacks can be discouraging. But rejection doesn’t have to define your career—it can be a stepping stone to something better.
I’m sharing my personal experiences and coaching insights to help you reframe rejection, process it constructively, and use it as fuel for future success.
What you’ll learn in this episode:Â
âś… Why rejection is not...
24: How to instantly battle self-doubt (real coaching session recording)
In this episode of The Career Diet Podcast, we dive into how self-doubt can hold you back when re-entering the workforce—and what you can do to overcome it. I share a real coaching session with Natalia, a scientist returning to work after a three-year career break due to health reasons. She’s struggling with fears of judgment, uncertainty, and the challenge of finding clarity in her next professional step.
What you’ll learn in this episode:
âś… How to stop feeling stuck in your career break and start seeing it as a strength.
âś… How to cha...
23: The career move you can’t afford to put off
In this episode of The Career Diet Podcast, we’re diving into the one career move too many people delay—and why waiting is costing you more than you think. If you’ve been feeling stuck, underpaid, or undervalued but haven’t taken bold action, this episode will give you the wake-up call (and the strategy) you need to finally make a change.
What you’ll learn in this episode:
✅ The financial cost of waiting—how much money you’re actually losing every month.
âś… The emotional and mental toll of staying in a job that drains yo...
22: 6 mistakes I made on my way to an aligned 6-figure career
In this episode of The Career Diet Podcast, I’m breaking down the 6 biggest mistakes I made on my journey to creating a 6-figure career that supports my dream lifestyle. If you’ve ever felt stuck, unsure, or overwhelmed in your career, this episode is packed with lessons learned and actionable tips to help you avoid these pitfalls and fast-track your way to success.
What you’ll learn in this episode:
✅ Why chasing “prestigious” roles instead of pursuing your passion can leave you feeling unfulfilled—and how to find work that excites you.
âś… The risks of jum...
21: How to find a career you love
In this episode of The Career Diet Podcast, we’re tackling one of the biggest mistakes job seekers make—searching for roles without clarity. If you’ve ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure if you’re on the right path, this episode will help you gain the direction you need.
Tune in to learn:
Start with your dream life – Get clear on what you want your ideal day to look like and the kind of role that supports your personal and professional vision.Get specific about the role – Dive into the details. What kind of projects excite you...20: Stuck in your job search? Do this
In this episode of The Career Diet Podcast, we dive into the eight most common job search traps that hold job seekers back—and how you can break free from them to start making real progress in your search. If you’ve been feeling stuck, frustrated, or unsure of your next step, this episode is for you!
Tune in to learn:
Overthinking vs. taking action: Stop getting lost in "what ifs" and start setting small, immediate goals to create momentum.Waiting for more education or certifications: Recognize that you don’t need to be perfectly qualified—take act...19: 10 signs you’re ready to land aligned $150K+ role
In this episode of The Career Diet Podcast, we’re diving into the 10 signs that show you're ready to land your dream 6-figure role. Whether it's shifting your mindset, taking accountability, or mastering your personal brand, you’ll find out exactly how to position yourself for career success. These signs are the key indicators that you're not just dreaming anymore—you're ready to take strategic action to secure your dream job.
Ready to take action towards your dream 6-figure career? Book a free call with my team today, and let’s explore how we can support your career j...
18: Your dream job is already yours
In this episode of The Career Diet Podcast, I’m uncovering the power of the "It’s done" mindset and how it can help you land your dream role. This mindset shift aligns your habits, thoughts, and actions with your future self, transforming the way you approach your job search and career growth.
Tune in to learn:
What the "It’s done" mindset is: Discover how adopting this approach helps you tackle challenges with confidence and clarity.Act like your future self: Learn how to align your mindset and daily habits with the person already thriving in you...17: The ultimate strategy for securing your dream 6-figure role in 2025
In this episode of The Career Diet Podcast, I’m diving into the ultimate strategy for securing your dream six-figure role in 2025. With AI transforming the job market, standing out has never been more critical. This episode is your step-by-step guide to mastering the job search game and making 2025 the year your career takes off.
Tune in to learn:
How to show up as the next-level candidate by adopting the mindset and habits of someone in your dream roleThe importance of defining your dream job with clarity and intention to target the right rolesWhy personal branding make...16: Career and job search predictions for 2025
In this episode of The Career Diet Podcast, I’m discussing my 5 bold predictions for the future of work and job search in 2025. From career shifts towards purpose to the importance of personal branding, the workplace landscape is changing, and these trends will affect how we approach our careers in the coming years.
Tune in to hear:
How success is shifting from prestige to purpose in career choicesWhy online applications are becoming obsolete, and what matters more nowThe rise of personal branding and why it’s a must for professionals in 2025The increasing importance of soft skills...15: Navigating job search talk at holiday gatherings
In this episode of The Career Diet Podcast, I’m discussing how to navigate the holiday season if you’ve been job searching this year. Family gatherings can lead to uncomfortable conversations about your progress. I’m sharing practical tips to help you enjoy the holidays while staying aligned with your job search and maintaining your well-being.
Tune in to hear:
How to set boundaries with family members and politely redirect those overwhelming job search questionsWhy it's important to be mindful of who you talk to about your career journey and how to leverage valuable connectionsHow to cel...14: The secret tool in your job search to use right now
In this episode of The Career Diet Podcast, I’m revealing a secret tool that can transform your job search experience: gratitude. It’s easy to get caught up in what’s not working or what’s yet to be achieved in your job search, but focusing on your progress and the support you’ve received can be a powerful way to move forward with confidence.
Tune in to hear:
How reflecting on the moments you're proud of and the people who’ve supported you can boost your job searchHow to turn gratitude into action by sending a he...13: Finish the year strong: job search plan based on your energy levels
In this episode of The Career Diet Podcast, I’m talking about how to finish the year strong and create a plan for your job search based on your energy levels. Sometimes we want to push ourselves, but we need to assess where we’re at physically and mentally, and that’s exactly what I’m sharing in this episode. Whether you’re full of energy or feeling drained, there’s a strategy that will help you finish the year strong and set you up for success in Q1 2025.
Tune in to hear:
How to assess your current e...12: Use November & December to land dream 6-fig role in Q1
In this episode of The Career Diet Podcast, I’m answering a question that comes up every holiday season: Should you hit pause on your job search until January? My answer is a strong “no!” November and December are your preseason — the perfect time to get focused and set yourself up to be the candidate everyone wants to hire in the New Year.
Tune in to hear:
5 steps to take in November and December to land your dream role in Q1.How to build a growth mindset and get mentally prepared for success.The importance of setting...