I truly believe that fitting in is overrated.
When you stand in your uniqueness and superpowers, it will open up a world of possibilities and new opportunities.
Hey, I’m Steph, a Career Story Coach.
I focus on empowering individuals to embrace their misfit identity and land their dream job.
I have always felt like an outsider.
I wasn’t girly enough to fit in with the girls but wasn’t boyish enough to fit in with the boys.
Growing up I was so clearly different from my family, I often wondered if I was adopted.
I went to church and asked questions and was told to never question your leaders.
I tried out 32 jobs in 15 years trying to find a place to land, and until now, I never found it.
I spent 2 years running a non-profit and it was the closest thing to feeling like a fit, but with a toxic work environment, it didn’t last.
When I was laid off in 2020, I took some time to really think about what I wanted. I decided to jump full-time into business as a resume writer and later a career coach.
I am the definition of a misfit.
I created the Destination: Dream Job podcast to serve other people who have felt like me.
Maybe you don’t feel like you fit in at work, you don’t know what’s next, or you feel so different that you will never find a place to land.
I get it.
In this podcast, we will cover:
＞ Identity and Career Clarity: helping you understand and embrace your unique qualities and define your career goals.
＞ Building Confidence: Fostering self-acceptance and building confidence by using your unique superpowers.
＞ Job Search Strategy: Equipping you with the skills you need to land your dream job.
I’m so excited to take this journey with you. Let’s live authentically and truly bring our superpowers to the world.
Next Steps:
Connect with me on LinkedIn:
www.linkedin.com/in/stephgillies
Visit the Website:
www.destinationdreamjob.com
All content for Destination: Dream Job is the property of Steph Gillies and is served directly from their servers
with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.
I truly believe that fitting in is overrated.
When you stand in your uniqueness and superpowers, it will open up a world of possibilities and new opportunities.
Hey, I’m Steph, a Career Story Coach.
I focus on empowering individuals to embrace their misfit identity and land their dream job.
I have always felt like an outsider.
I wasn’t girly enough to fit in with the girls but wasn’t boyish enough to fit in with the boys.
Growing up I was so clearly different from my family, I often wondered if I was adopted.
I went to church and asked questions and was told to never question your leaders.
I tried out 32 jobs in 15 years trying to find a place to land, and until now, I never found it.
I spent 2 years running a non-profit and it was the closest thing to feeling like a fit, but with a toxic work environment, it didn’t last.
When I was laid off in 2020, I took some time to really think about what I wanted. I decided to jump full-time into business as a resume writer and later a career coach.
I am the definition of a misfit.
I created the Destination: Dream Job podcast to serve other people who have felt like me.
Maybe you don’t feel like you fit in at work, you don’t know what’s next, or you feel so different that you will never find a place to land.
I get it.
In this podcast, we will cover:
＞ Identity and Career Clarity: helping you understand and embrace your unique qualities and define your career goals.
＞ Building Confidence: Fostering self-acceptance and building confidence by using your unique superpowers.
＞ Job Search Strategy: Equipping you with the skills you need to land your dream job.
I’m so excited to take this journey with you. Let’s live authentically and truly bring our superpowers to the world.
Next Steps:
Connect with me on LinkedIn:
www.linkedin.com/in/stephgillies
Visit the Website:
www.destinationdreamjob.com
Join me this week as I interview Mac Pritchard, founder and CEO of Mac’s List, author, and host of the top-ranked career advice podcast Find Your Dream Job.
Mac shares insights from his decades of experience in the job board industry, revealing the truth behind how job boards really work and why you shouldn’t rely on them alone to land your next job.
Discover the power of networking, referrals, and understanding employers’ pain points to stand out in today’s competitive job market. Learn practical strategies to navigate both the visible and hidden job markets and how treating your job search like a research project can dramatically increase your chances of success.
If you want actionable career advice on mastering job boards, building authentic connections, and accessing unadvertised job opportunities, this episode is a must-listen.
Connect with Mac:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/macprichard/Website: macslist.orgPodcast: macslist.org/podcasts
In this episode, career and diversity advisor Javier Vinsome joins us to unpack the real impact of AI on your job search.
With over a decade of experience supporting accountants and internationally educated professionals, Javier dives deep into how Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) use AI to screen resumes and why you need to leverage AI tools like ChatGPT smartly to beat the bots.
Discover how to use AI without losing your authentic voice, avoid common pitfalls like AI-generated errors or over-embellishment, and safeguard your personal info while crafting resumes, cover letters, and LinkedIn content.
Plus, get expert advice on using AI to prepare for interviews with tailored questions and answers that actually work.
If you’re confused about whether AI is friend or foe in today’s job market, this episode breaks down what you need to know to stay competitive and land your dream job.
Connect with Javier:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jvinsome/
CRIEC: https://criec.ca/
Connect with Steph:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephgillies/
It’s no secret that job hunting is a full-time job in itself, but for immigrants, it often feels like an uphill battle.
This week on the Destination Dream Job Podcast, I spoke with Mher Mardoyan, Career Coach about the challenges immigrants face in the job market.
One of the biggest hurdles? The constant demand for “Canadian experience,” and the tendency to undervalue international experience.
In this episode, we talked about:
🔑 The importance of recognizing the value of global experience and how employers can do better in supporting immigrants.
💼 Practical tips for job seekers, including the seven steps to job search success and how to stay positive during the process.
🌐 Leveraging LinkedIn and networking to build authentic relationships and increase your chances of landing your dream job.
If you're struggling to navigate the job search, especially with the added pressure of being an immigrant, this episode is for you!
Tune in now to hear more about Mher’s advice and insights.
Connect with Mher:
Authenticity and storytelling sets you apart in a competitive job market.
This week on the Destination Dream Job podcast, I was joined by Brad W. Minton, a career development expert who specializes in helping young professionals and job seekers navigate the challenges of personal branding and career growth.
This episode had so many great nuggets, it was hard to choose my top 3, but here they are:
✅ Embrace Your Story
Brad and I talked about how your story is what makes you truly stand out. Focus on the "why" behind your career choices, as it's the thread that connects all your experiences and shows employers what you bring to the table.
✅ Recognize Your Strengths
Reflect on past experiences where you excelled. Identifying your "in the zone" moments helps you understand what strengths you should leverage in your career and how to present them effectively on your resume.
✅ Don't Let Imposter Syndrome Hold You Back
If you don’t confidently share your achievements, someone else will. Building your personal brand is key to standing out in a crowded job market.
Listen to the full episode for more insights on how you can turn your unique story into a powerful personal brand that resonates with employers!
Connect with Brad:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/brad-w-minton/https://www.instagram.com/minttobecareer/
Connect with Steph:
www.destinationdreamjob.com
www.linkedin.com/in/stephgillies
Struggling with Networking? You're Not Alone.
Let’s be real – networking can feel cringy. The pressure to be perfect and the fear of rejection hold many people back. But the truth is, it doesn’t have to be awkward or salesy!
Here are the top takeaways from my recent conversation with Michelle about overcoming networking struggles:
Shift your mindset: Networking isn't about pushing sales. It's about having genuine conversations.
Prepare in advance: Know who you want to talk to, what you want to learn, and how you’ll talk about yourself.
Focus on curiosity: Approach networking with a mindset of learning, not just pitching.
Be authentic: People appreciate real, meaningful conversations – that’s how connections happen.
I’m embracing these principles myself in both my career and business growth. It’s about creating value first, not asking for favors.
Connect with Michelle:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelleschafercoaching/
Get a free chapter of Michelle's book:https://mschafercoaching.ca/cultivatingcareergrowth/
Connect with Steph:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephgillies/
Website: www.destinationdreamjob.com
Want to stand out in an interview? 🔥
Most job seekers walk into an interview thinking, "I hope they like me." But what if you walked in as a solution instead of just another applicant?
In my latest podcast episode with Matthew Sorensen, we dive deep into the mindset shift that transforms you from "just another candidate" to the must-hire solution. 💡
Top Takeaways:
✔️ Make yourself memorable—anchor your identity with a unique detail
✔️ Companies hire to solve a problem or seize an opportunity—show them you understand what that is.
✔️ Stop applying with "I need a job" energy—bring "I can solve your problem" energy.
Connect with Matthew:
www.linkedin.com/in/sorensenmatthew/
www.jobinterviewexperience.com
Connect with Steph:
www.linkedin.com/in/stephgillies
www.destinationdreamjob.com
🚨 Should I Stay or Should I Go? 🚨
Ever find yourself humming The Clash’s iconic song when thinking about your job? You’re not alone.
Many professionals struggle with the clash question—do I stick it out, or is it time to move on? The way we see work is shifting, with more people seeking purpose, fulfillment, and alignment with their values. But uncertainty, fear, and even guilt can keep us feeling stuck.
In my latest podcast episode with Grace Fabian, we dive into why this decision is so difficult and how to recognize when it’s truly time for a change. Spoiler: If you’re feeling stressed, trapped, stuck, or overwhelmed—it might be time to reassess.
We also talk about:
✅ The biggest signs it’s time to move on
✅ Why change isn’t as scary as it seems
✅ How to build a career that actually fits YOU
If you’ve ever wrestled with this question, tune in! 🎧 And if you’ve made a tough career move before, what was the moment that made you realize it was time? Let’s talk in the comments. 👇
Connect with Grace:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/gracefabiancoaching/
https://www.instagram.com/gracefabiancoaching/
Connect with Steph:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephgillies/
Job searching can feel like an endless cycle of rejection and uncertainty. How do you keep going without burning out?
I had an incredible conversation with Dave Wolovsky, and we tackled the mental and emotional side of the job search—because let’s be real, it’s exhausting.
Dave is a neuroscience-based coach, and his insights were game-changing.
💡 Here are three key takeaways from our chat:
✔️ Your life is bigger than any one problem – Don’t shrink your world down to just the job search. Keep living your life.
✔️ Energy management > Time management – Burnout happens when you put too much or too little effort in. Consistency is key.
✔️ Networking doesn’t have to feel desperate – Instead of asking for help, position yourself as someone on the move. People are more likely to engage when they see your value.
If you're in the middle of the job search grind, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in now and let me know your biggest takeaway!
Want to step into a leadership role but not sure where to start?Great news - you don’t need a title to start leading. On this week's episode of the Destination Dream Job Podcast, Jennifer Recla shares how leadership is about influence, not position. Here is what you can expect from this episode:✅ The 3 must-read books to sharpen your leadership skills✅ How to find a mentor (even if your company doesn’t have a program)✅ Why volunteering for leadership roles can fast-track your career✅ The #1 leadership struggle—and how to overcome it✅ How to get comfortable with feedback (both giving & receiving)🎧 Ready to grow into the leader you’re meant to be? Listen now!
Connect with Jennifer:
www.jenrecla.com
Link for Navigating Workload: https://youtu.be/7HBbmu0u6_Q?si=DsUQw6XqYrE5z0xG
Connect with Steph:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephgillies/
www.destinationdreamjob.com
Have you ever stopped to ask yourself: Am I actually living the life I want?
So many of us follow the traditional career path—go to school, get a job, climb the ladder—without questioning whether it’s truly what we want. But what if there was another way?
In this episode of Destination Dream Job, I had an incredible conversation with Kelly about designing a career that aligns with your values, priorities, and life stage. We talked about:
🌱 The Sow, Grow, Slow framework—how to recognize what career season you’re in and make decisions accordingly🚀 Why freedom and flexibility are essential for long-term career fulfillment⏸️ How taking a career break can actually propel you forward (yes, really!)🔎 The importance of defining your North Star—so every career decision moves you closer to a life you truly love
Kelly shared so many game-changing insights, and this episode is a must-listen if you’re feeling stuck, uninspired, or just ready for more alignment in your work.
Connect with Kelly:
IG & TikTok: @careerslayLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-burke/Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/career-slay/id1645861695
Your career isn’t just about finding a job—it’s about finding the right job.
This week’s podcast episode with Gerry Gadoury we talk about just that. Here are my top 3 takeaways:
✅ Alignment is Everything: When your personal values align with your company’s mission, you’re more likely to thrive and perform at your best. When they don’t, friction sets in, leading to dissatisfaction and burnout.
✅ Interviews Are a Two-Way Street: It’s not just about the company evaluating you—you need to evaluate them too. Ask about company culture, leadership styles, and growth opportunities to ensure it’s the right fit.
✅ Ask the Right Questions: Don’t wait until you’re hired to find out if it’s a good match. Questions like “Why do you enjoy working here?” or “What career growth opportunities exist within the company?” can reveal a lot.
Take control of your job search by being intentional about where you invest your time and energy.
Connect with Gerry: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gerrygadoury/
Connect with Steph: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephgillies/
How to Lead with Authenticity and Vulnerability
In this week's episode, I chat with Melissa Creede, a leadership expert who shares powerful insights on how leaders can embrace authenticity while maintaining authority. We dive deep into how transparency can positively influence teams and what it takes to find a balance between vulnerability and authority.
Top takeaways you can apply today:
Be transparent about your challenges: Let your team know when you're having an off day. It builds trust and stops assumptions from spreading.
Vulnerability with purpose: Share your struggles only when it serves to connect or teach others, not as a burden.
Understand your values: Knowing your top 3-5 core values will help you align with your authentic self and guide decision-making.
Connect beyond personal stories: Ask team members about their work experiences and feelings to connect on a deeper, human level.
Listen to the episode for more actionable advice on leading with authenticity.
Connect with Melissa:
www.linkedin.com/in/melissacreede/www.instagram.com/leadwithmelissa/www.tiktok.com/@leadwithmelissa
Connect with Steph:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephgillies/
Website: https://www.destinationdreamjob.com/
If you're not taking care of yourself first, everything else suffers. Start 2025 with a commitment to putting yourself at the top of your priority list.
In this week's podcast episode, we explore how self-care, confidence, and self-love intertwine to help you live more authentically.
Here are 3 wellness practices to transform your life in 2025:
> Magical Morning Minutes
Dedicate 15 minutes daily to self-care—whether it's a quick stretch, journaling, or mindful breathing. Small consistent actions can lead to big changes.
> Mindset Practices
Incorporate affirmations and gratitude journaling into your routine to cultivate confidence and resilience. These practices can ground you during challenging seasons.
> Take a Holistic Approach
A holistic approach ensures you're nurturing every part of your well-being.
Listen now to learn simple yet powerful ways to make 2025 your most balanced and fulfilling year yet!
As we wrap up 2024, I want to take a moment to say thank you for listening to the Destination Dream Job podcast this past year.
I’m so honored to be a part of your journey, whether you’re a business owner, a job seeker, or someone navigating today’s challenging job market.
Here are the top 3 most downloaded episodes of 2024 (links below):
1️⃣ Episode 54 – Mastering the Job Market: Networking, Headhunters, and Finding the Right Fit with Martina Sarro.
A fantastic conversation about elevating your job search through networking and headhunter insights.
2️⃣ Episode 51 – Tips from a Recruiter: What Makes Your Resume Stand Out with Chris Kapusta.
Packed with actionable advice straight from a recruiter to help you improve your resume.
3️⃣ Episode 42 – Transform Your Job Search with Ana Colak Fustin.
An inspiring session on sharpening your job search strategies.
In 2025, I want to continue to bring impactful discussion and create content to keep you updated on career trends.
I want to hear from you! What topics do you want to see covered?
Comment below or send me a DM with ideas and suggestions!
Episode 54: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/destination-dream-job/id1690369609?i=1000672341205
Episode 51: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/destination-dream-job/id1690369609?i=1000669930501
Episode 42: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/destination-dream-job/id1690369609?i=1000655667451
🎙 Looking for a job is like dating—you can’t expect someone to love you if you don’t love yourself.
I recently sat down with Ramon Santillan, founder of PersuasiveInterview.com, on the Destination Dream Job podcast. We discussed job market trends, career growth strategies, and how to stand out in a competitive market.
💡 Here are my top 3 takeaways from our conversation:
1️⃣ Job search = self-love + clarity: Before jumping into applications, reflect on your goals. A clear vision makes all the difference.
2️⃣ Prepping for 2025: In order to prep for 2025 start by identifying your career goals, assessing your unique skills and values, and start looking for opportunities that align.
3️⃣ Negotiation is Key: You don’t get what you deserve; you get what you negotiate.
Ramon’s advice is timeless: Be prepared, know your worth, and always stay authentic.
Which of these takeaways resonates with you the most?
Change can be daunting—even when it's positive.
In this week's podcast episode, Tony Martignetti, MBA, PCC and I dive deep into how to navigate uncertainty, embrace transitions, and leverage your unique journey to find clarity and purpose in your career.
Here’s a sneak peek of what we covered:
1️⃣ Change is part of life
Learn how to roll with it instead of fighting it.
2️⃣ Embrace your past experience
Your experiences are part of your journey, embrace them. Your non-linear path is a strength, not a weakness.
3️⃣ Expand your vision, narrow your focus
Explore possibilities through meaningful conversations, then channel your energy into a clear, intentional direction.
Change is challenging, but it’s also a powerful catalyst for growth.
Ready to reframe how you approach transitions and turn uncertainty into opportunity?
🎙️ Check out the full episode here to learn actionable strategies and inspiring perspectives! 🌟
Connect with Tony:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonymartignett1/
Connect with Steph:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephgillies/
Have you considered starting a business?
That is what we talk about this week on the Destination: Dream Job Podcast.
Orlando Haynes shares all about how to balance your 9-5 job with a 5-9 side hustle.
This was an interesting topic for me because I jumped into business full-time.
Here are 3 tips if you have been thinking of starting that side hustle:
> Decide on your business direction.
Picking a business is all about balancing your strengths, your knowledge and your passions.
> Have open communication with your loved ones
Communicating your vision, setting a schedule, and being present when it’s family time can help get your loved ones on board with your dreams.
> Should I start a side hustle or go full-time?
A side hustle can be a stepping stone. Rather than diving in, test the waters, build a client base, and create a safety net.
Learn so much more by listening to the full episode wherever you get your podcasts.
Now on YouTube!
💡 What tips do you have for balancing a side hustle?
Connect with Orlando:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/orlandohaynes/
Website: https://careertalkspodcast.com
Connect with Steph:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephgillies/
Website: https://www.destinationdreamjob.com/
I truly believe being a generalist is a superpower.
In this week’s podcast episode, Maya & I chat about what it’s like to be a generalist and how it became her superpower.
Check out these great tips for generalists Maya shared during the episode:
> Embrace variety instead of running from it.
Having multiple interests is a strength. It keeps you adaptable and brings a unique perspective to problem-solving.
> Redefine what success looks like for you.
Success doesn’t mean mastering one thing. It’s about creating a versatile toolkit from a breadth of experiences.
> Don’t forget to pass on what you learn.
It’s up to us to show the next generation that curiosity and exploration can be their greatest asset, without the pressure to “stick to one thing.”
Check out the full episode on the Destination Dream Job Podcast.
Connect with Maya:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mayameyouhas/
Connect with Steph:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephgillies/
When doing salary negotiation, who is more important – you or the person you are asking this question to?
That was the most impactful question I was asked in my latest podcast episode with Jamila Brown.
Jamila shares how in salary negotiations we tend to be worried about making the other person uncomfortable.
What if we flip the script and realize our family and our career goals are more important than the uncomfortable feeling of having a tough conversation?
When we truly know our goals and how we make an impact at work, we can confidently ask for what we want.
Tune into the episode for more practical steps to understand your worth and confidently negotiate your salary!
*Is there a podcast episode you wish I would do? Send me a dm with your ideas.
Key Themes:
Integration of Passions and Work: Discuss the common belief that personal and professional lives can be separate, and why that mindset can be detrimental. Highlight the importance of aligning passions with work for overall happiness.
Career Pivots: Explore the essential steps individuals should consider when contemplating a career change, emphasizing the need for self-reflection and accountability for past experiences.
Self-Discovery: Discuss the importance of understanding one's internal beliefs and values before making a career pivot. Introduce a framework of reflective questions to guide listeners in self-exploration.
Salary Negotiation Insights: Share a powerful client transformation story that underscores the significance of recognizing one’s worth and asking for what they deserve in salary negotiations.
Have you ever wondered how to be successful and do work you actually want to do?
This weeks episode of the Destination Dream Job podcast features Jeff Baker who does just that.
He encourages his clients to truly dive deep, identify what makes them unique, what strengths they have and align that in their career.
Here are some tips to get started:
> Build a visual model of your talents and strengths.
> Create your ideal work environment.
> Find real opportunities that match your career design.
> Build a support system to help you through challenging times.
To learn more about each step – check out the podcast episode for more details!
Connect with Jeff:
https://www.positivefutures.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/positivefutures
Connect with Steph:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephgillies/
https://www.destinationdreamjob.com/toolkit
I truly believe that fitting in is overrated.
When you stand in your uniqueness and superpowers, it will open up a world of possibilities and new opportunities.
Hey, I’m Steph, a Career Story Coach.
I focus on empowering individuals to embrace their misfit identity and land their dream job.
I have always felt like an outsider.
I wasn’t girly enough to fit in with the girls but wasn’t boyish enough to fit in with the boys.
Growing up I was so clearly different from my family, I often wondered if I was adopted.
I went to church and asked questions and was told to never question your leaders.
I tried out 32 jobs in 15 years trying to find a place to land, and until now, I never found it.
I spent 2 years running a non-profit and it was the closest thing to feeling like a fit, but with a toxic work environment, it didn’t last.
When I was laid off in 2020, I took some time to really think about what I wanted. I decided to jump full-time into business as a resume writer and later a career coach.
I am the definition of a misfit.
I created the Destination: Dream Job podcast to serve other people who have felt like me.
Maybe you don’t feel like you fit in at work, you don’t know what’s next, or you feel so different that you will never find a place to land.
I get it.
In this podcast, we will cover:
＞ Identity and Career Clarity: helping you understand and embrace your unique qualities and define your career goals.
＞ Building Confidence: Fostering self-acceptance and building confidence by using your unique superpowers.
＞ Job Search Strategy: Equipping you with the skills you need to land your dream job.
I’m so excited to take this journey with you. Let’s live authentically and truly bring our superpowers to the world.
Next Steps:
Connect with me on LinkedIn:
www.linkedin.com/in/stephgillies
Visit the Website:
www.destinationdreamjob.com
