In this episodeMarc Jordan shares his career journey from aspiring paleontologist to Vice President of Product Management at SGNL. He discusses his shifts from forensic science to technology, highlighting the role of problem-solving, connections, and identity management. Marc also recounts his move to the United States and experiences at Microsoft and Google, offering career insights and advice for transitions.Become part of our community by watching or listening and subscribing or following Sympa Says.

Youtubehttps://www.youtube.com/@SympaSays

Spotifyhttps://open.spotify.com/show/0zu1gsYgd0rmXCXNwXTRWIAmazonhttps://music.amazon.com/podcasts/9c73deb7-75af-44fa-ae40-70506949bdccApple Podcastshttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sympa-says/id1809071990Castboxhttps://castbox.fm/vh/6572789Goodpodshttps://goodpods.com/podcasts/sympa-says-681171iHeartRadiohttps://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-sympa-says-272967966/OvercastPocket Castshttps://pca.st/67eufjizChapters00:00 From Paleontology to Product Management03:01 The Journey Through Forensic Science and Technology05:57 Career Transitions and Problem Solving09:10 The Importance of Identity in Technology12:07 Specialization and Networking for Career Growth14:59 Moving to the United States: A Career Adventure18:08 Building Connections and Embracing Change21:11 Leaving Microsoft: New Opportunities Ahead25:50 Navigating Career Moves in Silicon Valley31:28 Transitioning from Google to Startups36:14 Philosophy and Values in Career Choices40:31 Career Highlights and Lowlights46:30 Advice for Career Starters and Switchers

In this episode of Sympa SaysHeather Grandy discusses her career journey from a curious child to a successful engineering and technology career. She highlights the importance of problem definition, collaboration, and resource utilization. Heather shares her co-op experiences, early career challenges, and transition to the tech world at Microsoft. She reflects on how the pandemic influenced her career and her passion for data and analytics, leading her back to Microsoft. Heather also addresses job search challenges, communication skills, pursuing passions, the value of a master's degree, and offers advice for new professionals.Become part of our community by watching or listening and subscribing or following Sympa Says.Links and locations of the podcast Spotifyhttps://open.spotify.com/show/0zu1gsYgd0rmXCXNwXTRWIAmazonhttps://music.amazon.com/podcasts/9c73deb7-75af-44fa-ae40-70506949bdccApple Podcastshttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sympa-says/id1809071990Castboxhttps://castbox.fm/vh/6572789Goodpodshttps://goodpods.com/podcasts/sympa-says-681171iHeartRadiohttps://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-sympa-says-272967966/OvercastPocket Castshttps://pca.st/67eufjizChapters00:00 Navigating Early Career Challenges02:57 Exploring Career Aspirations and Education05:55 The Role of Co-op Programs in Skill Development08:50 Experiences in Diverse Work Environments12:01 Transitioning to Microsoft and Initial Roles15:03 Finding Passion in Data and AI17:57 The Journey Through Microsoft: Growth and Learning20:46 Career Decisions and Regional Differences24:02 The Impact of Communication and Collaboration26:57 Shifting Roles and Embracing New Challenges29:52 The Transition to Training and Mentorship35:56 Passion for Teaching and Learning41:13 Transitioning to Startups and New Opportunities45:47 Pursuing a Master's Degree and Academic Experiences52:23 Navigating Career Challenges and Growth01:01:10 Reflections on Career Highlights and Lowlights01:07:00 Advice for Future GenerationsFollow Heather:https://www.linkedin.com/in/heathergrandy/

In this episode

Andrew Nathan discusses his journey from basketball aspirations to a successful career in IT and security , including military and Microsoft experiences. He highlights skills gained, the importance of teamwork, networking, and hismentorship-focused leadership philosophy. Andrew also addresses career challenges like cultural adaptation and workplace dynamics, offering valuable advice for aspiring professionals.

Become part of our community by watching or listeningand subscribing or following Sympa Says.

Chapters

00:00 From Basketball Dreams to IT Success

02:49 Career Challenges and Lessons Learned

05:54 The Importance of Teamwork and Skills Development

09:03 Transitioning to the Military and IT

12:13 Military Training and Its Impact on Career

15:03 Cultural Adaptation in the Workplace

17:51 Finding Success at Microsoft

28:55 Transitioning from Military to Civilian Life

35:04 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

41:46 Building a Career in Tech

47:51 Family Decisions and Relocation to the U.S.

54:57 Career Highlights and Lowlights

57:48 Advice for Aspiring Professionals