This week on the Power of Owning Your Career Podcast, host Simone Morris welcomes Keith Willis—leadership expert, entrepreneur, and Founder of Core Management Training. Keith’s journey is indicative of how careers thrive by intentional design, not by chance. Starting out as a U.S. Army Junior Officer, Keith made the leap to corporate America through the Cameron-Brooks Development & Preparation Program, a pivotal experience that shaped his passion for helping others own their career trajectories.

Keith built an impressive resume with award-winning roles in sales and training at industry giants such as Johnson & Johnson, Pfizer, and Bristol Myers Squibb, where he was recognized for his results as both a sales representative and a manager. Inspired by his drive to close the gap between individual performance and transformative leadership, Keith founded Core Management Training, where he equips pharmaceutical and life sciences organizations to turn managers into leaders who drive performance and culture.

Today, Keith is also building “Never Look for a Job Again”—an e-zine and course designed to empower professionals to create opportunities rather than wait for them. He believes that anyone can own their career by embracing self-awareness, setting meaningful goals, and building supportive networks.

In this candid and practical conversation, Keith shares actionable advice on navigating uncertainty, addressing ageism, and staying true to your authentic self—even when the workplace challenges you to fit in. Listeners will take away Keith’s holistic formula for career ownership, practical resources, and the confidence to make bold moves—no matter where they’re starting from.

Resources Mentioned in the Episode:

• Never Look for a Job Again (career development guide and upcoming course)
• PCS to Corporate America by Cameron Brooks
• Manager Tools & Career Tools podcasts
• The Long View by Brian Fetherstonhaugh
• Self-development tools: Audible, LinkedIn Learning, and yes—even ChatGPT!

Connect & Learn More:

• Host Simone E. Morris: LinkedIn | Become a Guest on the Show | 52 Tips for Owning Your Career
• Keith Willis: Core Management Training | Never Look for a Job Again

Follow & Subscribe:

• Join us on IG at @simonemorrisent for career inspiration
• Subscribe to our YouTube for inclusive conversations and actionable career strategies

Whether you’re an aspiring leader, a career changer, or someone looking to unlock your full potential, this episode will inspire you to get behind the wheel of your career and drive your future forward.