Time We Discuss | Career Exploration Podcast with Real Professionals and Real Stories

Ever wondered what it’s like creating silhouette portraits as a silhouette artist?

In this episode of Time We Discuss, we hear from Alison Russell, a talented live event artist who brings smiles to weddings, corporate events, and festivals with her creative and lightning-fast silhouette portraits.

Alison shares her inspiring journey from drawing as a kid to becoming one of the most in-demand silhouette artists in the industry. She explains what it’s really like working live at events, how she balances the creative and business sides of her work, and why live art still capt...

Have you ever wondered what it's really like to work as a holistic coach? Can you build a career helping people improve their health without becoming a doctor, physical therapist, or personal trainer?

In this episode of Time We Discuss, I sit down with holistic coach Fernando Alvarez May to explore a profession that combines strength training, corrective exercise, lifestyle coaching, and wellness into one unique career. Fernando explains how he helps clients improve their movement, reduce pain, sleep better, manage stress, and build healthier lives through personalized coaching.

We discuss how he transitioned from...

Have you ever wondered what it takes to become an ADHD coach? Is coaching the right career for you, and can you actually build a successful business helping adults with ADHD?

In this episode of Time We Discuss, I sit down with Dr. Anna Burns, an ADHD coach and Doctor of Physical Therapy, to explore what it's really like working as an ADHD coach. After spending years in healthcare, Dr. Burns discovered she had ADHD as an adult and transformed that life changing experience into a thriving coaching business dedicated to helping other adults better understand how...

Turn your passion for baking into a career?

What does it really take to run a successful home bakery? In this episode of Time We Discuss, **Brandy Smith LeCours**, owner of Enchanted Flour Bake Shop, shares the realities of working as a professional baker. From custom cakes and oversized stuffed cookies to farmer's markets and wholesale partnerships, Brandy shares what life is really like behind the scenes of a growing baking business.

You'll learn how she built a licensed home bakery, where she finds inspiration for new recipes, how she attracts loyal customers, and why...

Have you ever wondered what it's really like to work at NASA? In this episode of Time We Discuss, I sit down with NASA engineer and professional voice actor Eryn Andrews to explore two fascinating careers that could not seem more different, yet both require creativity, problem solving, and a passion for continuous learning.

Eryn shares what it is really like working as an engineer supporting human spaceflight, including training astronauts, preparing for spacewalks, conducting human performance research, and helping NASA develop future missions to the Moon. She explains how engineers specialize in different areas, why adaptability...

Have you ever wondered what it's really like to work as a professional violinist? Is a music degree required? How do professional musicians find gigs? And can you actually earn a living performing music?

In this episode of Time We Discuss, I sit down with professional violinist Wendy Provencher to explore what life is really like as a full time musician. Wendy shares how she built a career performing at weddings, corporate events, private parties, and with orchestras while also running a successful music school. We discuss the daily life of a professional musician, how networking leads...

Is a career as a yoga therapist right for you? In this episode of Time We Discuss, Anna Taylor shares what it is really like to work as a yoga therapist, including how yoga therapy differs from traditional yoga classes, the education and certification required, startup costs, salary potential, and the rewards and challenges of building a successful practice.

While many people think yoga is simply about flexibility and exercise, yoga therapy takes a personalized approach to helping people improve their physical and emotional well-being. Anna explains how movement, breathing techniques, mindfulness, and self compassion can help...

Professional calligrapher and wedding invitation designer Alex Zimmerman shares what it is really like to turn beautiful handwriting into a creative career.

From designing custom wedding invitations to engraving personalized gifts at live events, Alex explains how she built a successful business with very little upfront investment and a passion for creativity.

Learn how to get started in calligraphy, what tools you actually need, how much practice it takes, and why formal education is not required. Alex also discusses the realities of running a creative business, finding clients, working with wedding couples and brands, balancing...

Thinking about becoming a home baker or starting your own home baking business? Before you preheat the oven, watch this!

In this episode of Time We Discuss, Kathy Pry shares what it's really like running a successful home baking business from her own kitchen. From decorating custom cakes and building a loyal customer base to navigating Pennsylvania home bakery regulations, Kathy offers an honest look at the sweet rewards and unexpected challenges of the profession.

You'll learn how she turned a passion for baking into a thriving side business, why social media is essential for...

Thinking about becoming a divorce mediator? What is it really like helping couples navigate separation, conflict, and emotional conversations without going to court?

In this episode of Time We Discuss, divorce mediator and attorney Mardi Chadwick Balcom shares what it is really like working in divorce mediation. We discuss mediation versus arbitration, the emotional side of divorce work, burnout in family law careers, work life balance, mediator salary expectations, and the skills needed to succeed in conflict resolution careers.

Mardi also explains:

Are you looking to start a business but aren't sure where to begin? This episode of Time We Discuss offers essential business tips and five in-demand service based business ideas that can be ready by fall. Learn how to start a small business with low investment and set yourself up for success as the holiday season approaches. Subscribe for more career deep dives and unique paths you probably did not know existed.

=================================================================

Timestamp:
0:00 - Intro
0:31 - College Mentor / Academic Coaching / College Prep
1:25 - Professional Holiday Decorator
2:22 - Corporate Gift / Event Concierge<...

You went to school to become a teacher, now that's the LAST thing that you want to be. So what do you do now with a specialized degree?

Thinking about leaving teaching but not sure what comes next?

In this episode of Time We Discuss, we break down 5 high paying careers that teachers can transition into using the skills they already have from the classroom. From project management to recruiting, grant writing, and implementation roles, these jobs offer strong salaries, career growth, and surprisingly low barriers to entry.

If you are a teacher...

Thinking of becoming a DJ? Before you buy equipment or book your first event, listen to this first.

In this episode of Time We Discuss, live event DJ Nick Vecchio breaks down what it is really like working as a DJ behind the scenes. From weddings and school dances to corporate events and pool parties, Nick shares the reality of building a career in the DJ industry.

We discuss:

What is it really like working as an art therapist? In this episode of Time We Discuss, Sarah Balascio shares an inside look at the world of art therapy, creative arts therapy, mental health counseling, and helping people heal through creative expression.

Sarah explains how art therapists work with clients of all ages in hospitals, schools, treatment centers, senior centers, nonprofits, and private practice settings. We also discuss how to become an art therapist, education requirements, salary expectations, career flexibility, and what actually happens during an art therapy session.

If you are interested in psychology...

Discover what it is really like being a physical therapy assistant in this episode of Time We Discuss featuring John Cooper. From helping amputees regain mobility to working with stroke patients and orthopedic injuries, John shares the reality of working as a PTA and what makes this healthcare career both challenging and rewarding.

In this conversation, we discuss:

What if your current life is only part of a much bigger story?

In this episode, we explore the fascinating world of past life regression and what it is really like to guide people through their spiritual awakening and deeper spiritual journey. Could your fears, talents, or life patterns be connected to your past lives? And more importantly, can understanding those past experiences help you move forward today?

We sit down with Laura Van Tyne, a past life regression specialist, to break down how past lives regression works, what happens during a session, and how...

What does it really take to turn decluttering into a business? And is being a professional organizer as simple as it sounds?

In this episode of Time We Discuss, I sit down with Mary Ellen Lundy, founder of An Eco Organized Approach®, to break down what it is really like working as a professional organizer and removal expert.

From helping clients reclaim their spaces to giving unwanted items a second life in the community, Mary Ellen has built a unique, eco friendly organizing business that goes far beyond just cleaning up clutter.

We t...

When it comes to a dog trainer career, have you ever wondered what it's like to work as a dog trainer or how to become one? In this episode, Kathleen Troy shares her incredible journey into the world of dog training, from a lifelong passion for animals to building a successful business helping dogs and their owners.

You'll hear an amazing real life story about a once untrained cocker spaniel (Dylan) who became a highly skilled search and rescue dog, proving that any dog can be trained with the right approach.

If you are exploring...

What Is It Like Working as a Graphic Audio Visual Designer? Here are some real career insights.

What does a graphic audio visual designer actually do day to day? In this episode of Time We Discuss, we sit down with Carlos Steiger to explore the reality behind this creative career. From graphic design and video production to audio editing and brand storytelling, Carlos shares what the job is really like and what aspiring designers need to know before getting started.

If you are interested in graphic design careers, video production jobs, or creative roles that...

In this segment of "Time We Discuss" we look at what it's like to be a clown.

What is it really like being a professional clown?

In this episode of the Time We Discuss podcast, we sit down with Jusby the Clown to break down what it takes to turn clowning into a full time career. From daily routines and laughter yoga to singing telegrams, scary clown performances, and even pie in the face moments, this conversation reveals the real world behind an often misunderstood profession.

If you have ever wondered how to...

What is it really like working in mental health?

In this episode of the Time We Discuss podcast, we take a deep dive into the world of inpatient mental health care and explore what it is like to work as an inpatient mental health counselor.

If you are interested in mental health careers, psychology, or behavioral health jobs, this episode gives you a real behind the scenes look at the day to day responsibilities, challenges, and rewards of working directly with patients in crisis.

You will learn how inpatient mental health treatment works...

What is it really like working security at the Minneapolis Target Center?

In this episode of the Time We Discuss podcast, S.E. Tschritter shares her real experience working security at the Minneapolis Target Center, home of the Minnesota Timberwolves and one of the busiest entertainment venues in Minnesota.

From NBA games and concerts to quiet overnight patrols inside an empty building, this conversation gives a rare behind the scenes look at what a Target Center security job is actually like.

S.E. explains how she got the job while in college, what...

What does a ghostwriter actually do and how do you become one?

In this episode of the Time We Discuss podcast, host Dan speaks with nonfiction ghostwriter Jordan Ring about what it is really like working as a ghostwriter. If you have ever wondered how entrepreneurs and experts publish books without writing them themselves, this conversation reveals the behind the scenes process.

Jordan explains how ghostwriting works, how writers find clients, and how a freelance writing career can grow over time. He also shares the reality of working closely with clients to turn their ideas...

Want to learn how to write a grant and break into the growing grant zone? In this episode of the Time We Discuss podcast, we explore grant writing for beginners with experienced consultant Jayme Gittings.

If you have ever considered becoming a grant writer, this conversation walks you through what the job is really like. From a true grant writer day in the life to nonprofit strategy behind the scenes, Jayme shares how she built a successful consulting business helping organizations secure millions in nonprofit grants.

You will learn:

What does a financial advisor career path look like?

Learn how to become a highly paid financial advisor and unlock a lucrative career in the financial industry with real world insight from financial advisor Misty Lynch. In this episode, we go far beyond generic career advice and break down what a day in the life of a financial advisor actually looks like. From morning market awareness to client meetings centered on life transitions, you will discover how modern financial planning blends strategy, psychology, regulation, and relationship building.

If you have ever wondered what do a...

Discover how to create a successful oracle card reading business in 2026 in this fascinating episode of the Time We Discuss podcast featuring professional oracle card reader, Susie Schaefer.

Susie shares how she turned her intuitive abilities into a thriving spiritual business and how you can do the same. Learn the difference between oracle cards and tarot cards, how to get your first clients, and how platforms like YouTube and social media can help you grow your audience and income.

If you are interested in spiritual entrepreneurship, alternative careers, or starting your own oracle card reading...

What does it really mean to be a visionary entrepreneur?

In this episode of Time We Discuss, I sit down with Jeff Borschowa to break down what it is actually like working as a visionary entrepreneur. We explore how visionary entrepreneurs diagnose problems, build powerful networks, leverage the Pareto Principle 80-20 rule, and create growth without necessarily executing every step themselves.

If you have ever wondered how to become an entrepreneur, how to think more strategically in business, or how to double revenue without doubling costs, this conversation is packed with practical insights.

...

#workfromhome #homestaging #interiordecorating

Home stager and small business owner, Sarah Sullivan, joins in this episode of Time We Discuss, to explore what it is really like working as a home stager and interior decorator. Sarah shares an honest behind the scenes look at the home staging industry, how she built her business, and what the day to day work actually involves.

Sarah explains what a home stager does, how staging helps homes sell faster, and why vacant homes benefit so much from professional staging. She walks through the logistics of sourcing furniture, managing inventory, working...

What does it really take to become a small business founder in the AI space?

In this episode of Time We Discuss, we sit down with John Poothokaran, founder of an AI powered soccer highlights app, to talk about his journey from aerospace engineering to building an AI startup from the ground up.

John shares how he transitioned into artificial intelligence, why he decided to build an AI soccer highlights app, and what it is actually like launching a product as a small business founder. We dive into using AI tools to build apps, working...

Workplace safety goes beyond immediate threats like a slippery floor.

In this episode of Time We Discuss, Dan sits down with Jamie Anderson, a corporate safety trainer, to discuss her approach to workplace safety. Jamie explains how her system makes safety in the workplace easy to learn and remember, focusing on effective safety training. This conversation provides valuable insights into making health and safety engaging and impactful for employees.

This conversation goes beyond self defense myths and dives into real world preparation, leadership responsibility, and how businesses can better protect their people. Jamie also talks...

What is it really like to be a web page designer in 2026?

In this episode of the Time We Discuss podcast, Dan sits down with Liz Theresa to talk about the reality of working as a web page designer and running a web design business. Liz shares her journey from studying English and theater to building a successful career in web design without a traditional technical background.

This conversation goes far beyond colors and layouts. Liz explains what web page designers actually do day to day, including accessibility considerations, responsive design, copywriting, client strategy, and...

What is it really like to communicate with animals using telepathy?

In this episode of Time We Discuss, host Dan sits down with Karen Wickerson, a professional animal communicator and telepath, to explore the fascinating world of animal communication. Karen shares how she first discovered her ability to communicate with animals at a young age, why she shut it down for years, and how she eventually turned animal telepathy into a full time career.

This conversation dives deep into how animals communicate through images, emotions, and intuition, what animals want humans to understand about their...

What is it really like to be a family law attorney?

In this episode of Time We Discuss, host Dan sits down with family law attorney and law firm owner Jolee Vacchi to explore the realities of practicing family law. From divorce cases and child custody disputes to emotional resilience, work life balance, and starting a law firm, this conversation offers an honest look behind the scenes of a legal career many people are curious about but rarely understand.

Jolee practices family law in Massachusetts and Rhode Island and focuses on compassionate divorce and mediation...

What is it really like working in product design and the board game industry?

In this episode of Time We Discuss, host Dan sits down with product designer Dougal Grimes to explore his career designing toys and games for global brands. From studying product design engineering in Scotland to working in games marketing and product design, Dougal shares what it takes to build a career in the tabletop game industry.

This conversation dives into how creativity and engineering come together in product design, the role of education versus hands on experience, and how board games...

What is it really like owning an independent publishing company

In this episode of Time We Discuss, host Dan sits down with Susie Schaefer to explore what it is actually like running an independent publishing company. From helping authors publish their first book to guiding experienced writers through complex industry decisions, Susie shares what happens behind the scenes of indie publishing and why understanding how the industry works is critical for success.

Susie launched her publishing company in 2019 after decades of experience in human resources, media, and hospitality. What started as a career transition quickly...

This is the official wrap up of Season 2 of the Time We Discuss podcast. This episode looks back on more than 60 guests who opened the door to some of the most fascinating careers you can imagine. From astrologers and exorcists to sommeliers, ballerinas, voice actors, beekeepers, and registered patent agents, this season proved that you can build a career from almost anything.

In this episode, Dan shares Spotify achievements for 2025, highlights fan favorite moments, and retells the most inspiring stories of the year. You will also get a preview of Season 3, launching January 4th, which includes conversations...

Do many people dream of being a small business consultant focusing on improving processes?

If you run a small business and feel like your days are filled with putting out fires, this episode of Time We Discuss will feel like someone finally turned on the lights. In this conversation, Dan interviews small business consultant Marty Dunn, whose specialty is helping service based companies transform their operations through clear and sustainable process improvements.

Marty works with electricians, plumbers, landscapers, marketing firms and many other owners who are great at their craft but overwhelmed by the constant...

In this episode of Time We Discuss, meet Dave Benson of the Dave Benson Show! Dave's late night style show highlights musicians, directors, actors, writers, etc. and gives those artists with a quieter voice (among the noise) a place to talk about their craft.

Learn how to create a successful YouTube channel from scratch and grow your audience. Discover the best practices for optimizing your videos, creating engaging content, and increasing your visibility on the platform. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced creator, this video will provide you with valuable tips and strategies to help you...

From Jackson, Michigan, we're speaking with Gilbert Chocolates owners Brian and Sally Krichbaum.

Discover the sweet world of entrepreneurship as we delve into the life of a successful gourmet chocolate business owner. Learn the secrets to running a thriving business in the competitive world of artisanal chocolates. From crafting unique flavor profiles to managing a team and expanding a customer base, we'll explore the highs and lows of building a brand that's synonymous with luxury and indulgence. Whether you're a chocolate lover, an aspiring entrepreneur, or simply curious about the inner workings of a successful business, this...

Thanksgiving in 2025 leaves me feeling thankful for my visitors, subscribers, guests, and other podcasters. It's important that we take a minute with mindfulness at the forefront and recognize the wonderful things that we each have.

Remembering that my goal is to help others that are lost professionally or are unfilled in their career, I remember several key guests and videos from 2025.

This episode has a little something for everyone. Whether you are a creator, seasoned professional looking for fulfillment, or kind of quirky, this one can help steer you in the right direction. All hope...