Leg Job Seeker's Podcast

AI is everywhere in the job search—and it’s being marketed like crazy. But if you’ve tried using it, you know the truth: it’s confusing, overwhelming, and easy to misuse.In this episode of the Career Warrior Podcast, Chris Villanueva—Founder & CEO of Let’s Eat, Grandma—pulls back the curtain on how to use AI responsibly and strategically in your job search without losing your voice, your sanity, or your results.Chris breaks down where AI is powerful, where it’s dangerous, and how job seekers should actually be using tools like ChatGPT across their resume, cover letters, and outreach—especially as ATS systems continue to evolve.You’ll hear real, practical examples, including:How to use AI for job search lead generationHow AI fits into a smart job search strategy (and where it absolutely doesn’t)A breakdown of advanced search tactics (including sourcing decision-makers) and how to ethically use that dataHow to ask AI where you should apply if you’re feeling unclear or stuckUsing AI to check spelling, expose

Most leaders strive for this praise but are thrown into the deep end - responsible for up to 260 meetings a year and expected to know how to motivate teams, navigate tough conversations, and drive results with little guidance. This episode is all about becoming leadership. So if you’re trying to step into a new role or even just become a better boss, this episode is for you. Today’s guest is Ashley Herd, former Head of HR North America at McKinsey, national keynote speaker, and LinkedIn Top Voice who has trained over 250,000 managers.She has a new book coming out tomorrow, February 6th entitled, The Manager Method: A Practical Framework to Lead, Support, and Get Results (February 10, 2026 // Hay House), she helps managers at every level lead with confidence, navigate challenges, build strong teams, and avoid burnout.Topics we explore in this episode: Major challenges that managers faceWhy you should challenge yourself to become a better leader. Shouldn’t real world experience be enough?How a ca

AI tools are everywhere. Resume templates are getting longer. Applications are easier than ever to submit. And yet—fewer people are getting interviews.In this episode of the Career Warrior Podcast, we break down what’s quietly going wrong on modern resumes—and why “doing what everyone else is doing” is now working against you.You’ll hear how well-intentioned strategies are backfiring, why more effort doesn’t always mean better results, and how the job search has shifted in ways most professionals haven’t fully adjusted to yet. We’ll also talk about where candidates are losing credibility without realizing it and what actually cuts through the noise in today’s crowded market.If you’re a mid-to-senior level professional applying for roles and wondering why your resume isn’t opening doors like it used to, this episode will help you recalibrate before you waste another month applying the same way. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As we kick off a new year, it’s not enough to hope things get better at work—you need a plan. In this episode, we break down 5 practical ways to hit the ground running, whether you’re staying put, eyeing a promotion, or quietly preparing for your next move. The job market has shifted, managers are stretched thin, and “business as usual” career advice no longer cuts it. This is about being intentional, strategic, and realistic.You’ll learn how to:Have a clear, adult conversation with your boss about intent—without making it awkward or riskyRevisit your accomplishments (even the messy ones) and turn last year into leverageUse a simple Start / Stop / Continue exercise to create momentum fastSet income goals that don’t rely solely on your current jobIdentify roles you actually want—and talk to insiders who can help you get thereIf you’re job seeking, we’ll also cover one of the most powerful (and underused) networking questions you can ask—and how to set the intention so people actually help you.Get more help on

Are you feeling stuck, overworked, or like your career is moving without intention? In this episode, I sit down with George Appling, author of Don’t Settle: A Pick-Your-Path Guide to Intentional Work, to explore how you can design a career that actually fits your values, strengths, and goals.We dive into questions like:How do you know if you’re settling in your career—and what to do about it?What are the five paths most people overlook when choosing work?Can “following your passion” actually be bad advice?How can you make intentional career choices without burning out or overthinking?George shares actionable insights, real-life stories, and the framework he used to build a meaningful career on his own terms. By the end, you’ll walk away inspired to take control of your work, rethink your options, and pick the path that’s right for you.Learn more about George Appling and his book here:George Appling – WebsiteDon’t Settle – Pick-Your-Path Guide to Intentional Work Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more

This is the Let’s Eat, Grandma Career Warrior Podcast, where our goal is not only to help you land your dream job but to help you live your best life! Today we’re going to talk about why the End of the Year Is One of the Best Times to Get Hired.But today we’re not just here to talk about December and timing. This episode will cover ways to get competitive in a time when you think there are no opportunities. We’ll cover AI, the current job market, and common mistakes people are making at this time. My next podcast guest is a gem and his mission is to knock down stories that are holding people back. Dr. Eric Woodard is a career and leadership strategist who has helped more than 10,000 professionals across 70 countries build confidence and clarity in their job search.He is the founder of Win at Work, a Washington, DC–based coaching firm that helps professionals land better jobs, faster. Eric also has a fascinating background, having served in roles at the White House, the U.S. Senate, the State Departm

Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are evolving fast — and job seekers need to keep up. In this episode, Chris Villanueva, CEO of Let’s Eat, Grandma Resume Service, breaks down how AI is reshaping the way resumes are read, ranked, and filtered before they ever reach human eyes.You’ll learn how to write a resume for ATS that actually gets noticed — from using the right keywords and phrasing to emphasizing measurable results that align with modern AI algorithms. Chris also reveals how tools like Workday and Greenhouse are changing the hiring process and what this means for your job search strategy moving forward.Don’t let outdated advice cost you interviews. Tune in to learn the new rules of resume writing in the age of AI — and if you’re ready to see how your resume stacks up, get a free expert critique at letseatgrandma.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

AI is changing the job search game — fast. Layoffs are making headlines, recruiters are turning to automation, and job seekers are using ChatGPT to generate resumes and cover letters at lightning speed. But in a world of less personalization and more noise, how do you stand out?In this episode, Chris Villanueva, CEO of Let’s Eat, Grandma, breaks down how artificial intelligence is reshaping both sides of the hiring process — from AI recruiters scanning thousands of candidates in seconds to job seekers relying on generative tools for applications. He dives into the real implications of these changes, the fears behind recent layoffs at companies like Amazon and Meta, and what it all means for your career.Chris also shares practical advice for adapting to this new landscape without losing your human edge. You’ll learn why now is the time to diversify your skills, when to hold steady in your current role, and how to make your resume uniquely you in an increasingly automated world.Your career story shouldn’t sound

In this rebooted episode of the Career Warrior Podcast, we’re revisiting one of our most inspiring conversations — with international career strategist Sonal Bahl.Sonal isn’t your average career coach. With nearly two decades of global HR leadership experience at companies like GE and PwC — and over 250,000 resumes reviewed — she’s seen firsthand what it takes to stand out in any job market. But what makes her story powerful is that she’s been exactly where many job seekers are today: struggling to land opportunities in the middle of a recession.In this episode, you’ll hear how Sonal went from rejection after rejection to landing five job offers — and the exact steps, mindset shifts, and storytelling techniques that got her there. This is perfect for you if you feel like the current job search landscape is stacked against you.We’ll cover:How to bounce back from rejection and turn setbacks into strategyWhy focusing on your strengths can completely transform your job searchThe evolving role of LinkedIn and how

We have a special episode replay that deserves special attention today. We’ll discuss how to adapt to rapid changes in the world, which can save your career.Today I brought on Fawn Germer, a four-time Pulitzer Prize nominee and best-selling author of nine books including an Oprah book.Fawn is a global keynote speaker who has presented to more than 80 Fortune 500 companies. For her new book, Coming Back!, this four-time, Pulitzer-nominated journalist interviewed more than 300 CEOs, senior executives, professors, workplace consultants and professionals to find out why so many professionals sputter out mid-career and how to keep their careers alive. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today's episode is about hope during uncertainty -- as well as how to set goals in a meaningful way. This popular episode rerun features Susan Levine, Founder and CEO of Career Group Companies.Susan is an expert in creating meaningful professional connections and curating quality career matches based on the cultural fit between client and candidate. She founded Career Group, Inc. in 1981 as the first high-end recruiting firm focused on executive and administrative support. For these reasons, executives across the country rely on Susan as one of their most trusted advisors.So as you can see, Susan is going to be just awesome, and this episode is going to really help you out if you’re struggling with finding the right job hunting strategy for 2025. Resources:Find work through the Career Group Companies’ network of talent-seeking employersFollow Susan on LinkedInContact the Career Group Companies for questions Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The latest BLS report just wiped nearly a million jobs off the books through revisions, AI is creeping further into the workplace, and the headlines aren’t exactly comforting with political unrest on the rise. But if you’re on the job hunt, this isn’t the time to freeze.In this minisode, we break down:Why the BLS report looks so ugly this month (and why their numbers keep getting revised).The role AI is actually playing in today’s labor market.Which industries are still hiring — and which companies are launching real hiring sprees right now.What job seekers should actually do next (hint: don’t stop applying, and keep your head up).Because even in a tough job market, there are opportunities hiding in plain sight. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today I brought on Michael Goldberg, CEO and Founder of Hiring Transformed.Michael is a Recruiting Strategist, Candidate Experience Advocate, and Recruiting Data Nut. With extensive experience in talent acquisition and recruiting, he partners with both startups and established organizations to build strong HR functions and deliver exceptional experiences for internal and external customers. His mission is to transform recruiting teams into true recruiting superheroes.So as you can see, Michael is going to be just awesome, and this episode will really help you understand how recruiters are using LinkedIn—and what you can do to optimize your profile, build stronger connections, and stand out to employers.Resources:Transform your job search approach into a strategy at Hiring TransformedConnect with Michael on LinkedInFollow Hiring Transformed on YouTubeFollow usFollow Chris on LinkedInCheck Career Warrior Podcast on Instagram Subscribe to Let’s Eat, Grandma’s YouTube ChannelChe

Today’s guest, Mike Hayes, is nothing short of extraordinary:Mike is the former Commanding Officer of SEAL Team TWO, leading a two thousand–person Special Operations Task Force in Southeastern Afghanistan. In addition to a twenty-year career as a SEAL, Mike was a White House Fellow, served two years as Director of Defense Policy and Strategy at the National Security Council, and has worked directly with both Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama. Beyond his military and governmental service, Managing Director is currently managing director at Insight Partners.  Mike was previously Chief Operating Officer at VMware.So as you can see, Mike is going to be just awesome, and this episode is going to really help you take the next step in your career that is mission driven and full of purpose. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Career Warrior Podcast, Chris interviews Lisa Lewis Miller, the CEO of Career Clarity and author of the book, Career Clarity. Lisa is an internationally recognized expert in career change who has coached over 500 people across more than 10 countries. Together, they discuss the "four pillars of career fulfillment" to help you find a job that is not only a good fit but also sustainable and fulfilling. Lisa explains how to identify and apply these pillars, strengths, interests, personality, and lifestyle needs—to navigate your career and avoid common pitfalls. This episode is for anyone feeling confused about their career direction or struggling to find a job that truly aligns with their values.Resources:You can order in advance Lisa’s book: Career ClarityCheck out Lisa’s website to get some more clarity on your next career move.Connect with Lisa on LinkedIn.Follow usFollow Chris on LinkedInCheck Career Warrior Podcast on InstagramSubscribe to Let’s Eat, Grand

Learn the 10 essential salary negotiation laws to help you maximize your job offer and avoid costly mistakes. From timing your negotiations right to leveraging your value like a commodity in the job market, these tips will guide you to fair and beneficial compensation.We share practical advice on preparation, mindset, and strategy so you can approach your next job offer with confidence. Discover why likability, knowledge, and patience can play a huge role in your success.ResourcesGet more help on your applications from Let’s Eat, GrandmaCheck out Sam’s Career TalkConnect with Sam on LinkedInFollow us:Use Chris' LinkedIn for the newsletterCheck us out on InstagramFollow Let's Eat, Grandma on LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feeling stuck in your job search? Learn 4 steps to gain clarity, boost motivation, and land a role you truly want. Elizabeth Lotardo shares actionable tips to define goals, focus your search, and reignite your drive.Resources:Get more help on your applications from Let’s Eat, GrandmaCheck out Elizabeth's book, Leading YourselfConnect with Elizabeth on LinkedInFollow us:Follow Let's Eat, Grandma on LinkedInUse Chris' LinkedIn for the newsletterCheck us out on Instagram Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Job rejection sucks—and Elizabeth Hurtado is here to help. In this Career Warrior Podcast guest session, she shares 4 powerful mindset shifts and real strategies to stay confident and resilient during the job hunt. If you're spiraling, doubting yourself, or just need some practical encouragement, this episode is your reminder: you're not alone, and you've got this.Resources:Get more help on your applications from Let’s Eat, GrandmaCheck out Elizabeth's book, Leading YourselfConnect with Elizabeth on LinkedInFollow us:Follow Let's Eat, Grandma on LinkedInUse Chris' LinkedIn for the newsletterCheck us out on Instagram Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feeling stuck in your job search? Wondering why those applications aren't getting responses? In this insightful guest lecture from the Career Warrior Podcast, executive coach Merryn Roberts-Huntley reveals the #1 mistake job seekers make—and how to avoid it.Instead of relying on online applications alone, Merryn introduces her game-changing “5 Steps to Land Your Dream Job” framework. You’ll learn practical strategies to stand out, tell your story confidently, and move from frustrated job seeker to hired professional. Whether you're preparing for interviews, revamping your LinkedIn, or networking with purpose, this episode is packed with actionable advice you won't want to miss.In this episode, you'll learn the 5 Steps to Land Your Dream JobBuild Your BrandLeverage Your NetworkCreate Your PortfolioSubmit Your ApplicationAce The InterviewResources Mentioned:Find career help at madetohire.comConnect with Merryn on LinkedInFollow Merryn on IGFollow us:Follow Let's Eat, Grandma on LinkedInUse Chris' Link

Posting on LinkedIn is great. but it’s not the only way to grow your presence.In this episode, we explore the power of strategic commenting as a high-leverage tactic to boost visibility, engagement, and even job leads. Backed by data from Shield Analytics and the LinkedIn Creator Academy, we break down how and why commenting works, and how you can build a 5-minute-a-day routine that pays off fast.If you’re tired of posting into the void or just want a more approachable way to stand out, this episode is your new playbook.Follow us:Follow Let's Eat, Grandma on LinkedInUse Chris' LinkedIn for the newsletterCheck us out on Instagram Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.