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Got canned? 🥫 Here’s what to do next

More than 80,000 tech employees have been laid off from nearly 200 companies in 2025, according to Layoffs.fyi—and the year is far from over. While the data is alarming, what really matters is how you recover after a layoff. I joined Pam Mandel on her podcast Canned to discuss practical, tactical tips for bouncing back after a layoff. 👉🏼 Listen now to learn how to find your next job in today’s market! 👈🏼 In the episode, I answer questions like: 👨🏽💻 What does a career coach actually do? 👨🏽💻...

Is “The Hidden Job Market” Real?

I’ve received a lot of positive (and skeptical) messages from job seekers since releasing my latest Forbes article on the “hidden job market” in tech. It makes sense. Everyone talks about these elusive back channels, yet few career coaches actually break down how to leverage them. So, I’m dedicating this week’s newsletter to two of the most common questions I’m hearing: 1️⃣ Is the hidden job market real? Yes. A significant portion of jobs are secured through informal channels, especially as...

What does Kyle really spend most of his money on? 💰

If you guessed Starbucks or Disneyland, you’re wrong—though they’re probably close seconds. The truth is, I invest most of my discretionary funds in professional development. I love learning (Learner is one of my Top 5 CliftonStrengths), and I’m always on the lookout for new ways to grow. That’s why I’m excited to share that I’ve been accepted into the IFS Foundations for Coaches program through the IFS Institute! While IFS might sound like something one of my engineering clients would say in...

Why traditional job search advice fails in tech 💻

If you’re job searching in tech, you’ve probably seen advice like “don’t apply cold to jobs” and “just network more.” While well-meaning, most traditional job search tips don’t work in tech, and they can actually backfire! Why? Because this advice is usually written for mid-career professionals in conventional industries. It doesn’t account for the speed, nuance, or hyper-competitiveness of tech. And if you're a senior manager or executive, generic advice won’t just fall flat; it could stall...

I graduated + how spirituality can shape your career ✨

This weekend, I graduated from my Certificate in Trauma & Spiritual Care program! The 9-month program was nothing short of transformative. While I already had a robust understanding of trauma, this experience deepened my capacity to hold space for clients who are wrestling with career challenges, transitions, and purpose. Since starting the program, I’ve noticed the role of trauma and spirituality showing up more often in coaching sessions (or maybe I’m just listening differently now). More...

A new podcast for your next walk 🎧

If you didn’t know, I absolutely love walking. While I easily hit 20,000 to 30,000 steps every time I visit Disneyland, I also take multiple walks around Santa Barbara each day between client calls. Sometimes I call my mom. Sometimes I blast Cardi B or Megan Thee Stallion. And sometimes I dive into a good podcast. If you’re looking for the latter, I have a new podcast recommendation for you: Beyond Blind Blaming. I’m a bit biased, as I was the most recent guest, but I promise you it’s worth a...

How to future-proof your career 🤖

If I had a dollar for every time someone mentioned AI, I’d have enough money to never pay for Starbucks again (and I go twice a day). Truthfully, I’m a little AI-ed out at the moment, but it’s a critical topic if you’re job hunting, eyeing a promotion, or trying to fend off a layoff. That’s why I’m excited to share my recent conversation with Kate vanderVoort on her podcast, The AI Grapple. We cover… 🤖 Why middle management is most at risk (and what you can do about it), 🤖 The AI tools you...

Halfway through 2025: Are you where you wanted to be? 🗓️

I had a coaching session last week with one of my own coaches. Since we’re officially halfway through the year, we spent time reflecting on what I’ve accomplished so far and what I still want to work toward in the second half of 2025. It was a powerful conversation. I felt both proud of what I’ve achieved and excited about what’s ahead. I also felt a bit restless about taking the time to slow down and reflect, which can be difficult for someone who’s both a Type A and a Virgo. With the...

Summer Job Search? 5 Tips To Make It Count 😎

Thinking of job searching this summer? Between BBQs, vacations, and Disneyland trips (raises hand), it can feel tough to decide whether summer is the right time to job hunt. In my recent blog article, I dive into this timely question and share: ✅ Whether summer is actually a good time to search for a job (including historical hiring trends) ✅ 5 practical tips to help you tailor your search to your unique goals and schedule 👉🏼 Read the full article to optimize your summer job search. 👈🏼 One of...

Should I “come out” as LGBTQ+ while job searching? 🌈

As a career coach who works with many LGBTQ+ folx, I’m often asked this deeply personal question: “Should I come out during the job search process?” The truth is, coming out is a deeply personal choice. There’s no perfect or easy answer for if, when, or how to share your identity. That’s why I created a comprehensive guide to help you reflect intentionally and make an empowered decision that aligns with both your authenticity and safety needs. In honor of Pride Month, this guide explores: 🌈...