The Career Equation

• A New Chapter: Finding Purpose in Retirement, with Jed Novick

  We’ve all had those moments — wondering if we’re just drifting through our careers without a map. In this episode, Erica speaks with Jed Novick, a journalist turned lecturer, now at a turning point as he approaches retirement. Jed’s journey — from writing spoof TV listings to mentoring students — is a reminder that a meaningful career can emerge from the most unexpected turns. Before becoming an academic, Jed worked at the BBC, The Independent, and other major outlets. Now, he shares what he’s learned about storytelling, legacy, and staying curious. This isn’t just a story about career change. It’s about stepping back, asking what really matters, and creating a new chapter with intention. In this episode: • Embracing career serendipity • Balancing structure with spontaneity • Finding fulfilment beyond job titles • Why journalism still matters • Mentoring the next generation • Leaving a “job for life” • What purpose looks like after retirement   Find out more: • Erica Sosna on LinkedIn • Jed Novick on LinkedIn • More at thecareerequation.com

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• Why the Environment Makes the Difference in Your Career with Erica Sosna & Zoë Schofield

  How much does your work environment really matter? More than you might think. Erica and Zoë take a deep dive into the role environment plays in career satisfaction and success. It's not just about the job title or company name—it's about where you feel alive and can truly thrive. This episode gets into how the right setting fuels your growth and performance, and how the wrong one can feel like trying to fit a square peg into a round hole. Join the conversation as they unpack the nuances of environment, offering insights into how to identify what you need to flourish at work. From the physical space to the cultural vibe, every element has the potential to support or stifle your professional journey. ⸻ In this conversation: • The underestimated power of environmental fit • Recognising the signs of a misaligned work setting • Tools to audit your past environments for clues • How to design your ideal work environment • Real stories of transformation through environmental shifts • The impact of pace and space on your energy and creativity • Why environment is crucial to your personal career equation • Practical steps to align your work setting with your needs ⸻   Previous Episodes Mentioned   Jonathan Black https://pod.link/1767894956/episode/60baa5346f49abdebcbd3129a1b4237b   Susan Emmett https://pod.link/1767894956/episode/9a7e4b6603b6c3fdd702366e256c4c28   Melanie Rickey https://pod.link/1767894956/episode/5b4d0bba23a66bcf20ebea16dc50297a   Lucy Cappon https://pod.link/1767894956/episode/41916adb39e60dafca99b3ed33d60762     Find out more: • Erica Sosna on LinkedIn • Zoë Schofield on LinkedIn • More at thecareerequation.com   Take a moment to reflect on your own work environment—what energises you, and what holds you back? Share your experiences and join the discussion on social media. Let's explore how the right fit can transform your career experience.

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• Backing Yourself in Tough Times with Jayne Brierley

  What happens when the industry you’ve given decades to starts crumbling — and what comes next?   In this episode, Zoë talks to Jayne Brierley — a seasoned TV producer turned consultant, who’s helping production companies shape stories, win commissions, and keep British storytelling alive. From stepping back during burnout to jumping into consultancy with clarity, Jayne shares what she’s learned from both the highs and lows of a creative career.   It’s a masterclass in adaptation — and a reminder that the magic happens when you stay true to your voice, even in uncertain times.   ⸻   In this conversation: •Why “just enough” might be your sweet spot •What it really takes to change industry — and why it’s harder than it looks •The joy of making magic with like-minded creatives •The four elements of a thriving career (and how to spot them in your story) •Tips for leaders and hirers on spotting overlooked talent •Why the best environment brings out your best work •How Jayne uses the Career Equation to stay on track — and why she’s backing herself   ⸻   Find out more: Jayne Brierley on LinkedIn Zoë Schofield on LinkedIn More at thecareerequation.com

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• Impact: What Matters Most – with Erica Sosna & Zoë Schofield

  We all want to make an impact — but what does that actually mean? In this episode, Erica and Zoë explore one of the most powerful (and personal) elements of the Career Equation. Impact is the difference you make — in your work, your world, and the lives of others. But it’s also where energy comes from. When you feel like your work matters, everything shifts. This is a reflective, practical guide to working out what success means to you, and how to measure it on your own terms — not just titles, salary, or what’s trending on LinkedIn. Whether you’re figuring things out or leading a team, it’s packed with tools and questions to help you build a career that truly counts. ⸻ In this conversation: • Why impact is personal — and always evolving • Getting clear on what success looks like for you • Why people stay (or leave) based on meaning, not money • How to ask the right questions — as a leader, coach or mentor • Ways to create more impact in your current role • How to spot your own sweet spots — and grow from there • Why measuring your impact boosts motivation • Real stories of people reshaping their careers after major change ⸻ Find out more: • Erica Sosna on LinkedIn • Zoë Schofield on LinkedIn • More at thecareerequation.com

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• US Tech Founder: Anya Cheng & Thriving in the Chaos of Starting Up

  How do you keep going when the path ahead is full of unknowns? In this episode, Zoë is joined by tech entrepreneur Anya Cheng for a rich, honest conversation about navigating change — and backing yourself when things feel uncertain. Anya’s story takes us from early career rejection and visa struggles to founding her own company, Taelor, which helps people look sharp without the usual stress of shopping or laundry. Along the way, she talks about the skills she’s carried through it all — resilience, connection, and a knack for solving problems in unconventional ways. It’s a conversation about the messy, nonlinear path to success — and how our superpowers often come from the things we first had to fight for. Whether you’re leading something, starting something, or still figuring it all out, there’s something in here for you. ⸻ In this conversation: • What rejection teaches you — and why it matters • The scrappy, human side of breaking into a new industry • Building Taelor — and solving real-life problems through tech • Creating a business that reflects your values • The difference one person’s belief can make • When you know what “good” looks like… but you’re still building • Spotting potential in others (even when it’s not obvious) • Thriving in chaos — and knowing when it’s time to grow ⸻ Find out more: • Anya Cheng on LinkedIn • taelor.style — use code podcast for a discount Connect with Zoë on LinkedIn More at The Career Equation website    

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