Career Spotlight

21 Episodes
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By: Software Oasis

Looking to transform your career or break into tech without traditional experience? Career Spotlight is your weekly guide to navigating successful career transitions in today's dynamic job market. Host Michael Bernzweig, founder of Software Oasis, brings you practical strategies and inspiring stories from B2B consulting and SaaS professionals who have successfully pivoted their careers. Each episode delivers actionable advice on breaking into tech, building transferable skills, and landing opportunities in today's most promising industries. From career changers to recent graduates, discover proven pathways to launch your new career without expensive degrees or years of experience. Get insider tips on...

How Nearshore Remote Teams Fix Hiring Bottlenecks
#22
Yesterday at 7:12 PM

In this episode, host Michael Bernzweig sits down with Chris Brown, partner and CTO at Wow Remote Teams, to unpack why hiring has quietly become one of the biggest growth bottlenecks for modern companies. Together, they explore how remote work truly changed access to talent, why nearshoring to Latin America helps solve time zone, culture, and skill gaps, and why cost efficiency should be the outcome rather than the sole strategy. You’ll hear which roles are best suited for nearshore teams, how to think about data and security across borders, and how expanding your talent radius can drive sp...


Designing a Career Moat in the Age of AI
#21
02/07/2026

Discover how organizational mindset, strategic reframing, and leveraging AI and ecosystems can unlock exponential growth. Loic Potjes shares his journey from corporate leadership to coaching CEOs worldwide, emphasizing the importance of thinking differently to thrive in disruption. Join host Michael Bernzweig as he explores how organizational mindset, strategic reframing, and leveraging AI and ecosystems can unlock exponential growth. Discover insights on transforming careers and business models to thrive in disruption.

Main Topics

The journey of a global CEO turned coach and entrepreneurShifting from traditional models to exponential growth frameworksThe importance of rethinking business models with AI...


Unlocking Effective Training Strategies
#19
12/20/2025

In this conversation, John Morley founder of ID for Hire and host Michael Bernzweig discuss the critical aspects of instructional design and training effectiveness. He emphasizes the importance of understanding learners' needs, the role of AI in training, and effective strategies such as chunking content and using informal tones in training materials. The discussion also highlights the significance of task-driven training and the benefits of micro learning for modern learners.

Takeaways

ROI from training is seen in reduced costs and increased value.Training should focus on what learners need to know.AI can assist but requires...


Revolutionizing Recruitment: The Marketing-First Approach
#18
12/20/2025

In this episode, host Michael Bernzweig and EA Clarke, founder of Pivot and Edge, explore a disruptive approach to recruitment that highlights how strong employer branding and authentic storytelling help attract the right candidates. He highlights the need for startups to communicate their unique stories effectively and leverage their networks for amplification. Key takeaways include capturing and sharing the company story, defining storytelling goals, and the importance of consistent messaging across the organization.

Takeaways

EA Clarke emphasizes a marketing-first approach to recruitment.The traditional recruitment process often fails to connect candidates with company culture.Employer branding...


Independence Lab's Brianne Rush: Navigating Your Career
#17
06/30/2025

In this episode of Career Spotlight, Michael Bernzweig interviews Brianne Rush, founder of Independence Lab. They discuss Brianne's journey from magazine journalism to establishing a platform focused on emotional intelligence for young professionals. The conversation covers the importance of adaptability in career paths, the impact of AI on job opportunities, and practical tips for job interviews. Brianne emphasizes the value of curiosity, self-learning, and building relationships in both remote and in-office settings. The episode concludes with insights on choosing the right organization size and culture for personal growth.

Takeaways

Brianne's journey highlights the importance of emotional...


Right Track Admissions: Hamada Zahawi on Planning Your Future
#16
06/26/2025

In this episode of Career Spotlight, host Michael Bernzweig interviews Hamada Zahawi, founder and CEO of Right Track Admissions. They discuss Hamada's journey from law to admissions consulting, the challenges students face in applying to universities, and the importance of planning and profile development. The conversation also covers economic factors affecting education, alternatives to traditional degrees, and maximizing the college experience through networking and personal growth. Hamada shares insights on current trends in admissions, advice for international students, and the significance of personal narratives in applications. The episode concludes with reflections on travel and personal growth.

Takeaways<...


Network Concierge's Susan Collins: Navigating Career Transitions
#15
06/04/2025

In this episode of Career Spotlight, host Michael Bernzweig of Software Oasis interviews Susan Collins, an executive coach and founder of the Network Concierge. They discuss Susan's journey into coaching, the evolution of career coaching, and the diverse range of clients she works with. The conversation explores the challenges of navigating career transitions in a changing market, the importance of networking, and actionable steps for individuals considering a career change. Susan shares success stories from her coaching practice, emphasizes the need for different actions to achieve growth, and provides insights into entrepreneurship and the common blind spots faced by...


VDS Digital's Ginny Delaitre on Crafting Social Media Strategies
#14
06/04/2025

In this episode of Consulting Spotlight, host Michael Bernzweig of Software Oasis interviews Ginny Delaitre, founder and CEO of VDS Digital Agency. They discuss Ginny's journey from mobile app development to creating a full-service marketing agency, focusing on the importance of understanding client needs and the evolving landscape of mobile apps and social media marketing. Ginny shares her unique strategies for engaging clients through storytelling and emphasizes the significance of selecting the right platforms for effective audience engagement. In this conversation, Ginny discusses the effective use of LinkedIn for B2B marketing, emphasizing the importance of genuine engagement over...


Oskar Skolding on SEO Sherpa's CRO Strategies
#13
06/03/2025

In this episode of Career Spotlight, host Michael Bernzweig interviews Oscar Skolding, a digital strategist at SEO Sherpa. Oskar shares his unique career journey, starting from an apprenticeship in the UK to becoming a key player in a leading global SEO agency based in Dubai. The conversation delves into the day-to-day responsibilities of a digital strategist, the impact of AI on SEO and digital marketing, and the importance of user experience and data-driven decision-making in the industry. Oskar emphasizes the evolving nature of SEO and the significance of conversion rate optimization in achieving immediate results for clients. In this...


Navigating Career Transitions with Dawn Rasmussen
#12
05/27/2025

In this episode of Career Spotlight, host Michael Bernzweig interviews Dawn Rasmussen, a certified resume writer and career management expert. They discuss the evolving job market, the importance of transferable skills, and strategies for navigating career transitions. Dawn shares insights on the challenges faced by job seekers, especially in the tech industry, and emphasizes the need for continuous professional development. The conversation also touches on the impact of AI on job searching and the unique challenges faced by older job seekers. Listeners gain valuable tips on how to effectively market themselves and adapt to the changing landscape of work.<...


Bradley Benner On The Evolution of SEO and Its Future
#11
05/03/2025

In this episode of Career Spotlight, host Michael Bernzweig interviews Bradley Benner, founder of Semantic Mastery. Bradley shares his journey from being an electrician to becoming an SEO expert and entrepreneur. He discusses the evolution of SEO, the impact of AI on search and marketing, and offers insights on navigating career opportunities in local marketing. The conversation also covers the importance of choosing the right industry, building a holistic marketing agency, and the value of white label services. Listeners will gain actionable tips on validating industry viability and staying updated with trends in SEO and AI integration.

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Navigating the Evolving Landscape of Recruitment
#10
04/15/2025

In this episode of Career Spotlight, host Michael Bernzweig interviews Bill Kasko, the president and CEO of Frontline Source Group. They discuss the evolution of the staffing industry, the challenges faced during the startup phase, and the impact of technology on recruitment. Bill shares insights on building a company philosophy centered around people and service, the importance of adaptability in careers, and the recognition Frontline has received over the years. The conversation also covers the shift to remote interviews, the significance of job shadowing, and the role of skills-based testing in hiring. Bill emphasizes the need for effective communication...


Exploring Opportunities in UI/UX Careers
#9
04/04/2025

This podcast focuses on igniting a career in UI/UX design, highlighting the abundant job opportunities, attractive salaries, and the skills needed to succeed in this field. Michael Bernzweig discusses the importance of building a strong portfolio, the potential for career growth, and the various educational paths available, including non-traditional learning options. He emphasizes the accessibility of UI/UX careers for individuals from diverse backgrounds and the flexibility of remote work in this industry.

Takeaways

UI/UX design has a surplus of job openings.Starting salaries in UI/UX can be around $70,000.A strong portfolio is...


The Future of IT Jobs: Opportunities Await
#8
04/04/2025

This podcast discusses the vast job opportunities available in the IT industry, particularly for entry-level positions. It highlights the booming nature of the IT sector, the accessibility of training programs, and the potential for rapid career advancement without the need for traditional degrees. The speaker emphasizes the importance of skills over formal education and provides insights into various roles available in IT, along with resources for training and job support.

Takeaways

Entry-level opportunities in IT are abundant and accessible.The IT industry is projected to grow significantly in the coming years.Many IT roles do not...


Kim Ades Unlocking Resilience: The Key to Success
#7
03/17/2025

In this episode of Career Spotlight, host Michael Bernzweig interviews Kim Ades, the president and founder of Frame of Mind Coaching and Journal Engine Software. They discuss Kim's entrepreneurial journey, the significance of resilience in personal and professional life, and the transformative power of coaching. Kim emphasizes the importance of perspective in overcoming adversity and shares insights on thought mastery, emotional resilience, and the unique approach of her coaching methodology. The conversation also touches on the pros and cons of traditional employment versus entrepreneurship, the role of journaling in coaching, and the balance between personal and professional life.

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Matt Diamante: From Freelancer to SEO Agency Leader
#5
02/18/2025

In this episode of Career Spotlight, host Michael Bernzweig sits down with Matt Diamante, the founder of Hey Tony, a thriving digital marketing agency specializing in SEO. Matt shares his unconventional journey from advertising intern to successful entrepreneur managing a global team of 13-14 professionals. Along the way, he reveals how his passion for SEO, resilience, and willingness to take risks transformed his career and the lives of his clients.

Matt’s story is one of perseverance and adaptability. After starting in traditional advertising, he pivoted to freelancing and eventually launched Hey Tony, where he helps businesses ac...


Michelle Jamison: From Call Center Agent to CEO of Seismic Wave Support
#6
02/14/2025

In this episode of Career Spotlight, host Michael Bernzweig sits down with Michelle Jamison, the inspiring CEO of Seismic Wave Support. With over 20 years of leadership experience, Michelle shares her remarkable journey from starting as a nervous call center agent to leading a globally dispersed team as the CEO of a thriving customer experience and remote team management company.

Michelle delves into her career path, highlighting pivotal moments, lessons learned, and the mentors who shaped her leadership style. She discusses the innovative solutions Seismic Wave Support provides, including customer service, social media management, virtual assistants, and outbound...


From Code to Product: How Deon Crasto Mastered Global Payments Tech
#4
01/31/2025

In this episode of Career Spotlight, we sit down with Deon Crasto, Principal Product Manager at Velocity Global, who shares his fascinating journey from software engineer to product management leader. With nearly a decade of experience spanning machine learning, healthcare tech, and global payments, Deon offers unique insights into navigating career transitions in the tech industry. His deep expertise in data science and AI has positioned him as a thought leader in the fintech space.

During our conversation, Deon reveals how his analytical background in data science shaped his approach to payment solutions and fraud detection. His...


From Engineer to Tech Educator: Damien Schreurs' 12-Year Entrepreneurial Journey
#3
01/30/2025

In this episode of Career Spotlight, we sit down with Damien Schreurs, Founder and Explainer-in-Chief of EasyTECH. After an 18-year career as a Fortune 500 research engineer, Damien transformed his passion for technology and teaching into a successful business helping solopreneurs and professionals master their digital tools.

From his base in Luxembourg, Damien shares how he strategically transitioned from corporate life to entrepreneurship over 2.5 years while maintaining a 70% role at his engineering job. Today, he runs a thriving tech training business and hosts the Macpreneur podcast, and their newsletter, where he helps Mac-using entrepreneurs optimize their workflows.

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From Small Town to Digital Success: How Nikki Lindgren Built a Female-Led Marketing Agency
#2
01/30/2025

In this episode of Career Spotlight, we're joined by Nikki Lindgren, founder of Pennock, a California-based digital marketing agency helping beauty and lifestyle brands scale their e-commerce presence. Starting from a small Minnesota town of 400 people, Nikki's journey took her through roles at Pottery Barn and Cost Plus World Market, where she was part of the founding 7-person e-commerce team that generated 200K in their first month.

After managing digital marketing for over 45 entertainment and sports brands including Game of Thrones merchandise and major sports teams, Nikki founded Pennock in 2020. Today, her all-female team specializes in elevating...


From Law to Tech Leadership: How Rachel Phillips Scaled a Multi-Million Dollar Consulting Platform
#1
01/11/2025

In this premiere episode of Career Spotlight, meet Rachel Phillips, CEO of Fully Accountable, who shares her remarkable journey from law school graduate to tech company leader. Starting as a summer associate during law school, Rachel helped incorporate Fully Accountable in 2014 while taking her bar exam. Under her leadership, the company grew from 3 to 42 employees, providing comprehensive outsourced accounting and CFO services to businesses across the USA and Canada.

Key Discussion Points:

Founded in 2014 as an outsourced accounting departmentScaled from 3 to 42 employeesServices range from bookkeeping to CFO functionsUS-based team providing comprehensive financial servicesController acts as project...