Let’s be real: Can you name ten jobs off the top of your head right now? Maybe not. And even if you could, explaining what those careers entail and how to achieve them is much harder. According to a 2021 study by Joblist, around 65% of respondents were guided into their career path with influence from their parents. For example, if a parent is a doctor, their child often wants to be one too because that’s all they have ever known. Doing something different might seem “scary” or “outside of their comfort zone.”
When kids transition into high school, they start to ask questions like, “What career should I choose?” and “Where should I go to college?” These questions can feel extremely overwhelming. As a tenth grade student himself, host Andrew Maged has experienced that stress firsthand. That’s why he created “Adding Spice to Career Advice” to help teens figure out what they truly want to do and be inspired to follow that path.
With guests from all different professional backgrounds, Andrew covers a wide range of career paths and provides real-world examples that can be useful to any teen. Andrew and his expert guests discuss the pros, cons, and exciting potentials of different jobs. Whether it's uncovering the hidden aspects of someone’s daily work routine or learning the critical decisions that shaped their professional life, this podcast brings a fresh perspective to career development.
Taking Charge of Your Career with Geralyn Ritter, President & CEO of Crowell Global Advisors
In this episode, I’m joined by Geralyn Ritter, President and CEO of Crowell Global Advisors, a public policy consulting firm that advises clients on global health policy, technology, AI, and international trade. Geralyn has built a career that spans law, government, and the private sector, including negotiating trade agreements at the World Trade Organization, leading global public policy at Merck, and helping spin off an S&P 500 company dedicated to women’s health.
Growing up in Texas as the oldest of four, Geralyn was encouraged by her parents to keep her options open, which is a mindset that shaped every decision she’s made since graduating high school. Instead of choosing between law and international policy, she pursued both, earning a joint degree in law and a master’s in International Studies.
Geralyn shares honest advice on risk-taking and how your tolerance for change will look different at every stage of life. Whether you’re figuring out what to study, considering entrepreneurship, or curious about how to position yourself for an opportunity, this conversation is a great reminder that very few career decisions are permanent, and that trying something new is almost always worth it.
Episode Outline
(01:29) Growing up in Texas and being encouraged to explore
(04:40) How Geralyn chose her college path without knowing exactly what she wanted
(06:52) Career advice: why she started in the private sector before going into government
(09:44) How a mix of different experiences opened doors throughout her career
(23:17) Taking career risks and having confidence in yourself
(25:41) Why public policy and healthcare need more passionate young people
(29:28) Entrepreneurship, risk tolerance, and knowing when to take the leap
Connect with Geralyn
Follow Geralyn on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/geralyn-ritter/)
Learn more about Crowell Global Advisors (https://crowellglobaladvisors.com/)
Connect with Andrew
Subscribe to Adding Spice to Career Advice on:
YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@AddingSpicetoCareerAdvice)
Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/2oDqouIFO3xLPLi1c8jJMl?si=4b1ec1a5030c4982&nd=1&dlsi=093af475dd3b4cac)
Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/adding-space-to-career-advice/id1771461969)
26 Aug 2025
The Power of Plasma with Dr. Vikas Soni, Founder & CSO of JivaJet
In this episode, I'm joined by Dr. Vikas Soni, a scientist and entrepreneur working at the intersection of plasma medicine, cancer biology, and space technology. Dr. Soni shares his journey from growing up in one of India's most competitive scientific environments to co-founding JivaJet alongside Dr. Anmol Taploo, who I interviewed earlier this season.
What stands out about Dr. Soni's story is how he balanced his artistic passions with his love for science. Growing up surrounded by some of the best scientists and facing intense academic pressure, he initially considered careers in acting and art before his grandfather's cancer diagnosis shifted his focus toward biomedical research. His experience shows that you don't always have to choose between creativity and science, but instead can find a way to combine both passions.
Dr. Soni offers honest insight into the challenges of being an international entrepreneur in the US, including having to step down as CEO of his own company due to regulatory restrictions. Despite these obstacles, the work he's doing at JivaJet is genuinely amazing. He describes how his team is using plasma technology to treat aggressive brain tumors and antibiotic-resistant bacteria, while also developing applications for space exploration like wound healing in microgravity and enhancing plant growth for future Mars missions.
Episode Outline
(00:44) Dr. Soni's background and journey from India to Washington, D.C.
(04:04) Growing up in a competitive scientific research township in Mumbai
(10:05) The differences between college applications in India vs. the US
(12:14) Key mentors and influences throughout his academic journey
(19:17) The science behind plasma's effects on plant growth and seed germination
(21:51) How plasma technology could revolutionize wound healing in space
(23:53) How entrepreneurship has transformed his approach to space medicine
(28:42) Advice for international entrepreneurs facing regulatory obstacles
(30:38) Advice for the next generation who want to pursue STEM entrepreneurship
Connect with Dr. Vikas
Connect with Dr. Soni on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/v1k/)
Learn more about JivaJet (https://www.jivajet.com/)
Connect with Andrew
Subscribe to Adding Spice to Career Advice on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@AddingSpicetoCareerAdvice), Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/2oDqouIFO3xLPLi1c8jJMl?si=4b1ec1a5030c4982&nd=1&dlsi=093af475dd3b4cac) and Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/adding-space-to-career-advice/id1771461969)
22 Jul 2025
Finding Your STEM Path with Molly Sullivan, Director of Corporate Development at Space Tango
In this episode, I’m joined by Molly Sullivan, Director of Corporate Development at Space Tango, a company that enables research and manufacturing in space. Molly’s journey from biomedical engineering to the commercial space industry shows how oftentimes, the right job comes from being open to non-linear paths and following unexpected connections.
Molly shares how her athletic background shaped her approach to her college and beyond. Playing multiple sports taught her to be adaptable, competitive, and willing to try new things, which she says inspired her to explore different internships and career paths early on in college.
Molly’s advice for anyone trying to break into space or biotech is to stay patient and persistent. She emphasizes that the unexpected detours that she’s taken have been extremely valuable. Even though it might not seem like it on the surface, her experience in technical roles, business development, and legislation all contribute to her success at Space Tango. Molly’s story is an important reminder that when you follow your passions and creativity, the right opportunity will come along.
Episode Outline
(00:57) How Molly got interested in STEM in high school
(01:44) The link between sports and business skills
(05:22) College experience and focusing on tissue engineering
(07:17) How biomedical engineering principles apply across industries
(09:29) The business of biotech
(11:54) Discovering the connection between tissue engineering and space
(14:57) What Space Tango does and the evolution of Molly's role there
(17:01) Breaking into competitive industries and having patience
(18:38) Advice for finding the right fit in STEM careers
Connect with Molly
Connect with Molly on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/mollysulllivan/)
Learn more about Space Tango (https://spacetango.com/)
Connect with Andrew
Subscribe to Adding Spice to Career Advice on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@AddingSpicetoCareerAdvice), Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/2oDqouIFO3xLPLi1c8jJMl?si=4b1ec1a5030c4982&nd=1&dlsi=093af475dd3b4cac) and Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/adding-space-to-career-advice/id1771461969)
15 Jul 2025
Innovating Space with Dr. Anmol Taploo, Co-Founder of JivaJet
In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Anmol Taploo, an aerospace engineer and co-founder of JivaJet, a company developing plasma propulsion engines for satellites. Anmol shares how he went from studying gas turbine engines in New Delhi to pioneering technology that could revolutionize how satellites operate in low Earth orbit, all while facing significant skepticism from the aerospace community.
Anmol’s path to plasma propulsion started with childhood conversation with his aunt, a NASA scientist who worked on the Challenger spacecraft. Those discussions about space exploration and the possibility of life beyond Earth sparked an interest that eventually led him to focus on how to use air as a propellant for satellite engines at extremely low altitudes. When he first presented his ideas at conferences five years ago, researchers would literally laugh at him, but he persisted because he saw how it could positively impact the increasing levels of “space junk” and limited capabilities of traditional satellites.
Anmol’s perspective of entrepreneurship is that the hustle always pays off, even when the path isn’t clear. It’s also important to surround yourself with people who believe in you and your ideas, especially when skeptics get loud. For anyone considering starting a business, Anmol’s story proves that a clear vision and persistence can transform “crazy” ideas into reality.
Episode Outline
(00:21) Anmol's background and path from New Delhi to George Washington University
(05:20) India's competitive education system and choosing engineering track
(14:16) Aerospace industry restrictions and internship experiences
(16:20) Co-founding JivaJet and commercializing PhD research
(22:04) Developing air-breathing plasma engines for low Earth orbit
(25:33) Transition from scientist to entrepreneur mindset
(30:45) Advice on persistence, hard work, and believing in yourself
Connect with Anmol
Connect with Anmol on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/anmoltaploo/)
Learn more about JivaJet (https://www.jivajet.com)
Connect with Andrew
Subscribe to Adding Spice to Career Advice on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@AddingSpicetoCareerAdvice), Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/2oDqouIFO3xLPLi1c8jJMl?si=4b1ec1a5030c4982&nd=1&dlsi=093af475dd3b4cac) and Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/adding-space-to-career-advice/id1771461969)
8 Jul 2025
Fueling Aviation Innovation with Dr. Robert Price, CTO of CleanJoule
Dr. Robert Price, CleanJoule's CTO, discusses his unconventional STEM journey and the dedication needed for success in aviation innovation, advising listeners to align career choices with their desired lifestyle in this interview.
7 Mar 2025
Tech Entrepreneur Ajay Batish on Turning Your Passion Into a Successful Career
In this episode, I'm joined by Ajay Batish, a technology entrepreneur who has built multiple successful companies throughout his career. What stands out about Ajay's story is his journey from a curious child who loved taking things apart to becoming an innovative business leader who's spent over 20 years building and growing technology companies.
What I found most interesting about our conversation was Ajay's unique perspective on engineering as a creative profession. He emphasizes how engineering isn't just about technical skills - it's about problem-solving and innovation, making it a solid foundation for entrepreneurship. His experience at Apple, where he learned that technology should focus on its human impact, shaped his approach to building companies that make a meaningful difference.
Ajay also shares valuable insights about the reality of entrepreneurship, explaining that rather than being your own boss, every customer becomes your boss, but the key is to embrace the unpredictability of running a business. Plus, he offers guidance for young people exploring their careers, including the importance of finding mentors and building a personal "board of directors" to support your journey.
Episode Outline
(01:18) Growing up as a "latchkey kid" and developing independence
(03:07) Balancing family expectations with personal interests in engineering
(05:03) Ajay’s self-taught journey into computer programming
(06:45) Why Ajay chose the University of Waterloo and what his co-op experiences in college taught him
(14:11) Choosing to learn from mistakes instead of regretting them
(19:54) Developing problem-solving and creative skills that overlap in engineering and business
(21:37) Career and college advice for teenagers
Resources Mentioned
How to Have a Great Career by Larry Smith (https://www.harpercollins.ca/9781443445207/how-to-have-a-great-career/)
Connect with Ajay
Connect with Ajay on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ajay-batish-3296501/)
Learn more about Incapsulate (https://www.incapsulate.com/)
Connect with Andrew
Subscribe to Adding Spice to Career Advice on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@AddingSpicetoCareerAdvice), Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/2oDqouIFO3xLPLi1c8jJMl?si=4b1ec1a5030c4982&nd=1&dlsi=093af475dd3b4cac) and Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/adding-space-to-career-advice/id1771461969)
6 Dec 2024
Finding Your Own Way with Monica Bisgaard, Consultant and Child Advocate
Consultant and child advocate Monica Bisgaard shares her refreshing perspective on education and career planning, emphasizing the importance of following one's own interests and taking time to explore different possibilities.
20 Nov 2024
Driving Success with Uros Joksimovic, Founder of Washingtonian Luxury Limousine
Uros Joksimovic, founder of Washingtonian Luxury Limousine, shares his entrepreneurial journey, highlighting the importance of patience, resilience, and continuous learning, and offering valuable lessons on financial stability and adaptability.
15 Oct 2024
Business With a Touch of Magic: Brian Curry, Magician and Mentalist
In this episode, I’m joined by Brian Curry, a magician and mentalist based in Washington, D.C. Brian offers a unique perspective on an unconventional career path and highlights the importance of passion, adaptability, and hard work - lessons that are valuable no matter what field we end up in.
What strikes me most about Brian's story is the support he received from his parents. Unlike many of us who feel the need to pursue traditional careers, Brian had the freedom to explore his passion for magic. But, as a student, he still dealt with plenty of internal pressure to excel academically and prove himself.
Brian's take on college is refreshing. He talks about how higher education taught him to genuinely enjoy learning. It's not just about the grades; it's about developing a curiosity that extends beyond the classroom.
In our conversation, Brian and I also cover the less glamorous side of being a professional magician. He doesn't sugarcoat the challenges: inconsistent income, wearing multiple hats, and the pressure of essentially running your own business. But, his passion for performing makes it all worthwhile, which is something to think about as we consider our own career paths.
Episode Outline
(02:30) Brian's childhood and early interest in magic
(08:15) College experience and choosing a career path
(14:45) Misconceptions about being a professional magician
(19:20) Advice for aspiring magicians and getting started in the field
(23:50) Realities of a magic career - challenges and rewards
(27:40) Balancing passion with parenting and life advice
Connect with Andrew
Subscribe to Adding Spice to Career Advice on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@AddingSpicetoCareerAdvice), Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/2oDqouIFO3xLPLi1c8jJMl?si=4b1ec1a5030c4982&nd=1&dlsi=093af475dd3b4cac) and Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/adding-space-to-career-advice/id1771461969)
Connect with Brian
Follow Brian on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/briancurrylies/?hl=en)
Learn more about Brian’s show: A Good Liar (https://www.agoodliar.com/)
Additional Resources
Vanishing Inc. (https://www.vanishingincmagic.com/)
Penguin Magic (https://www.penguinmagic.com/)
This podcast is produced by The Wave Podcasting (https://www.thewavepodcasting.com/)
1 Oct 2024
Talking Tech with Ivan Learmont, VP of Information Technology at Northpond Ventures
In this episode, I’m joined by Ivan Learmont, Vice President of Information Technology at Northpond Ventures, to learn about his career journey in the tech industry.
Ivan's passion for tech began in high school with math and coding calculators. His first internship at a TV station at 13-years-old sparked his interest in computers. Despite facing challenges like lack of parental understanding and financial constraints, Ivan pursued computer engineering in college at the University of Delaware.
In our conversation, Ivan shares insights about his career growth at Marriott, where he transitioned from property-level work to overseeing telecom strategy and hotel openings across North America. Throughout his career, he’s had to practice being solution-oriented, adaptable, and continuously learn as the tech industry evolves. That curiosity for what’s at the cutting edge eventually led him to leave the hospitality industry and pursue a career at a science and technology venture capital firm.
Ivan's advice for aspiring tech professionals includes embracing challenges, being open to new experiences, and maintaining a positive attitude. He also reflects on the importance of encouraging an entrepreneurial spirit in his own children, fostering creativity and independent thinking.
Episode Outline
(01:41) Ivan’s first internship experience
(05:57) Reflections on career decisions and advice for aspiring tech professionals
(11:41) Ivan's approach to managing work stress and problem-solving
(19:12) Why Ivan chose a career in IT over chip design
(24:12) Ivan’s experience with college applications and applying for scholarships
(28:43) Creative, simple ways to think like an entrepreneur
Additional Resources
The University of Delaware (https://www.udel.edu/)
Connect with Ivan
Follow Ivan on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivanlearmont)
Learn more about Northpond Ventures (https://www.npv.vc/)
Connect with Andrew
Subscribe to Adding Spice to Career Advice on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@AddingSpicetoCareerAdvice), Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/2oDqouIFO3xLPLi1c8jJMl?si=4b1ec1a5030c4982&nd=1&dlsi=093af475dd3b4cac) and Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/adding-space-to-career-advice/id1771461969)
This podcast is produced by The Wave Podcasting (https://www.thewavepodcasting.com/)
30 Sept 2024
Welcome to Adding Spice to Career Advice
“What career should I choose?” “Where should I go to college?” These questions can feel extremely overwhelming. As a tenth grade student himself, host Andrew Maged has experienced that stress firsthand. That’s why he created “Adding Spice to Career Advice” to help teens figure out what they truly want to do and be inspired to follow that path.
With guests from all different professional backgrounds, Andrew covers a wide range of career paths and provides real-world examples that can be useful to any teen. Andrew and his expert guests discuss the pros, cons, and exciting potentials of different jobs. Whether it's uncovering the hidden aspects of someone’s daily work routine or learning the critical decisions that shaped their professional life, this podcast brings a fresh perspective to career development.
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Spotify
3.0 / 5
6 ratings
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