Podcast thumbnail for Around the Ladder

Around the Ladder

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by Erika Steinberg

5.0(5 reviews)
41 episodes
Updated Daily
Accepts GuestsHas SponsorsLocation 🇺🇸
24

Podcast Authority

Beta
PoorBased on show quality, social media presence, reviews, charts, and more
Pod Engine
Quality35
Social0
YouTube0
Engagement32

Podcast Overview

Welcome to Around the Ladder – the podcast where we explore the twists, turns, and unexpected detours of career journeys. Many of us are familiar with the phrase ”climbing the corporate ladder,” but what happens when your path doesn’t follow a straight line? I became fascinated by the idea of going around the ladder – carving out a different kind of career path. My own journey took this route. After 25 years as an employee, I stepped away for a year and emerged as a consultant and business owner. And along the way, I realized I’m not alone. There are so many people out there whose careers have taken unconventional, surprising, and inspiring directions. In this podcast, you’ll hear conversations with people who have traveled paths of all shapes and sizes. Sometimes you backtrack or move sideways; other times, you need someone to lift you up or simply sit with you right where you are. No matter where you are on your journey, you’re not alone. So, whether you’re rethinking your next step or just curious about the many ways a career can unfold, you’re in the right place. This is Around the Ladder – let’s explore the journey together.

Language

🇺🇲

Publishing Since

4/11/2025

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24

Podcast Authority

Beta
PoorBased on show quality, social media presence, reviews, charts, and more
Pod Engine
Quality35
Social0
YouTube0
Engagement32
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2
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12
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excellent
Episode Length
45 minutes
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Every 8 days

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Recent Episodes

Episode thumbnail for Why Soft Skills Are Actually Strategic Skills With Bushra Khan

July 30, 2026

Why Soft Skills Are Actually Strategic Skills With Bushra Khan

In this episode of Around the Ladder, Erika Steinberg sits down with Dr. Bushra Khan to explore why the skills that matter most in today’s workplace are often the ones that are hardest to measure. As AI takes over more of the technical, repeatable parts of work, the conversation shifts to what still sets people apart: communication, emotional intelligence, trust-building, and the ability to lead through uncertainty. Bushra makes a strong case for retiring the phrase “soft skills” and reframing them as strategic skills. She breaks down how self-awareness, relationship management, social awareness, and emotional regulation affect everything from leadership and change management to conflict resolution and career growth. The episode also digs into why AI is raising the bar at work, how leaders can keep teams grounded during change, and why human connection is becoming even more valuable. Erika and Bushra also talk about the importance of team-based training, shared language, and creating organizational buy-in instead of relying on one-off coaching or individual development alone. Bushra closes with a practical reminder: when work feels uncertain, return to your own track record and remember the hard things you’ve already done. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why emotional intelligence is a strategic advantage in the AI era. How trust and human connection still drive leadership and influence. Why change leadership matters more than change management alone. How AI is reshaping expectations, pace, and burnout across industries. Why resilience and self-awareness are essential for navigating uncertainty. Connect with Bushra Khan: LinkedIn: Dr. Bushra Khan Website: Leading with BK Instagram: leadingwithbk

Episode thumbnail for Around The Ladder: What If the Detour Was the Point? With Matt Plavnick

July 16, 2026

Around The Ladder: What If the Detour Was the Point? With Matt Plavnick

In this episode of Around the Ladder, Erika Steinberg sits down with Matt Plavnick to talk about the unexpected turns that shaped his path, from teaching and writing to time in Antarctica, freelance work, and eventually a long career inside law firms before launching his own business. Matt’s story is a reminder that not every move needs to look strategic in the moment to become meaningful later. What can feel like a gap, a detour, or a series of happy accidents may actually be the foundation for the work you’re meant to do. What we talk about How Matt describes his career as a series of “happy accidents”. The role travel, writing, and wilderness work played in shaping his perspective. Why he didn’t feel “behind,” even when his path looked unconventional. What he learned from stepping into law firm life in his mid-30s. How parenting and work forced him to rethink creativity, ambition, and priorities. Why storytelling and critical thinking became such important parts of his work. How naming and framing can help people recognize the strengths they already have. Why he believes many people are more prepared for change than they realize.   Matt’s journey is a reminder that clarity doesn’t always arrive first, sometimes it shows up after the experiments, the pivots, and the unexpected yeses. No matter where you are on your journey, you’re not alone. Connect with Guest LinkedIn: Matt Plavnick Website: Axis Blog: Legal Marketing AF

Episode thumbnail for Around The Ladder: Financial Planning for a Career Pivot With Haley Gray

July 2, 2026

Around The Ladder: Financial Planning for a Career Pivot With Haley Gray

In this episode of Around the Ladder, Erika Steinberg sits down with financial planner Haley Gray to unpack one of the most emotionally charged parts of career change: money. Haley shares how financial planning intersects with fear, freedom, identity, and the very real practical concerns that come with leaving a stable job or starting something new. Together, they discuss what people are most afraid of when considering a career move, why money is often more emotional than logical, and how to build more financial flexibility before making a leap. Haley also explains the common surprises that catch people off guard, including healthcare costs, irregular income, and the need to separate personal and business finances. The conversation also explores the differences between proactive and reactive career transitions, why a side hustle can be a smart way to test an idea, and how generational attitudes toward work and risk shape these decisions. If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re “ready enough” to make a change, this episode offers both reassurance and practical guidance. Connect with Haley: LinkedIn: Haley Gray, CFP, AIF Website: Stellarix Email: hgray@financialguide.com

41 total episodes available

Recent guests on Around the Ladder

Guests from recent episodes — sign up to see every guest that has ever appeared on this show.

Raychel Lean

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Bradley Girard

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Jennifer Gillman

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Sarah Pew

Guest

Laura Green

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Rose Moran

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Danielle Hughes

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Elise Holtzman

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Sean Gelchion

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Elisa Cruickshank

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Stacy Thal

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Jessica Campos

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What is Around the Ladder?

Welcome to Around the Ladder – the podcast where we explore the twists, turns, and unexpected detours of career journeys. Many of us are familiar with the phrase ”climbing the corporate ladder,” but what happens when your path doesn’t follow a straight line?

I became fascinated by the idea of going around the ladder – carving out a different kind of career path. My own journey took this route. After 25 years as an employee, I stepped away for a year and emerged as a consultant and business owner. And along the way, I realized I’m not alone. There are so many people out there whose careers have taken unconventional, surprising, and inspiring directions. In this podcast, you’ll hear conversations with people who have traveled paths of all shapes and sizes. Sometimes you backtrack or move sideways; other times, you need someone to lift you up or simply sit with you right where you are.

No matter where you are on your journey, you’re not alone.

So, whether you’re rethinking your next step or just curious about the many ways a career can unfold, you’re in the right place. This is Around the Ladder – let’s explore the journey together.

How often does this podcast release new episodes?

This podcast updates daily.

Where can I listen to this podcast?

This podcast is available on 4 platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and more. You can also use the RSS feed directly.

Does this podcast accept guests?

Yes, this podcast regularly features guests.

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