Rachel Arditi, Senior Director at Sage Therapeutics, shares a fascinating journey of juggling her master's degree with a demanding career. Discover how her theater background has been instrumental in cultivating her leadership skills and work ethic, all while leveraging classroom lessons in the real world. Our conversation sheds light on the vibrant dynamic between academic endeavors and practical application, offering listeners insights into how diverse experiences can fuel motivation and personal growth. Together with Dr. Rick Garrowood, we reflect on the exhilarating yet challenging path of reaching academic milestones, emphasizing the lifelong value of continuous learning and the importance of early life experiences.

Navigating the decision to pursue further education while working full-time is no small feat, and this episode dives into the strategic considerations that come into play. From setting clear objectives—be it career advancement, increased salary, or personal development—to consulting with advisors and seasoned professionals, we explore the roadmap to academic and career success. Personal stories, including shifts from arts to business, highlight the need for clarity and adaptability in balancing studies with professional commitments. With a message of encouragement, we urge younger listeners to be open to change and new opportunities, reminding everyone of the significance of support systems and self-care amid ambitious pursuits.

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Join Dr. Rick Arrowood for an engaging conversation with Matthew Coccoluto, a talented former student from Northeastern University D'Amore-McKim School of Business, as he shares his extraordinary transition from the stunning landscapes of Pepperdine University to the bustling tech scene in Boston. Matthew's journey is fascinating, as he recounts how the ocean views of Malibu seduced him during his film studies, yet ultimately his roots and the fast-paced rhythm of Boston beckoned him back. Listen as Matthew details how his foundation in project management during his graduate studies laid the groundwork for an unexpected opportunity at Uber, propelling him into the dynamic world of tech and operations management at ezCater.

We then shift gears to tackle the evolving role of AI in the workplace, with a focus on the digital food marketplace. Matthew and I explore how AI is reshaping decision-making and efficiency, enhancing tasks like SQL queries, while also maintaining the delicate balance of personal client relationships. Our discussion highlights the growing acceptance of AI in business schools, transitioning from strict bans to more structured frameworks. As technology advances, we ponder whether businesses are actively crafting AI policies or merely observing its impact. This episode is an insightful look into the intersection of tech, education, and the transformative power of AI.

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Explore the inspiring journey of Dr. Julia Ivy, an extraordinary educator, and international business strategist who transformed her life from a top management consultant in Eastern Europe to an internationally recognized leader in global strategies for businesses and individuals. Julia's story of choosing to shift her comfortable life back home to unknown opportunities and navigating a new life in America brings forth valuable lessons in open-mindedness, resilience, and strategy for businesses and anyone facing significant life changes.

Our conversation with Julia takes a deep dive into the evolution of personal and professional strategies in new markets. She shares her transition from a GROWTH-focused strategy, crucial for establishing her place in a new country, to an EDGE-focused one that leverages her unique skills and background. By questioning "what's next," Julia emphasizes the importance of adapting strategies to meet current needs and guiding students and professionals to align their goals with strategic actions. Her insights on creating and using the BE-EDGE method provide a roadmap for celebrating achievements while remaining agile in the face of new challenges.

Reflecting on legacy and personal positioning strategy themes, Julia discusses the sometimes anticlimactic nature of reaching significant milestones, such as earning two PhDs. We explore the metaphor of "unfreeze, act, refreeze" in leadership to acknowledge achievements and promote progress. This episode offers a vision of creating supportive environments where educated individuals from diverse backgrounds can capitalize on their unique skills and thrive as global talents. Listen in to be inspired by Julia's journey and her commitment to empowering the next generation of global leaders.

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